Davao City's Lakas-Kampi-CMD is all ready for 2010 polls

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – The ruling Lakas-Kampi-CMD political party has completed its nominees for next year’s local and national elections.

Lawyer Karlo Nograles, son and chief of staff of House Speaker Prospero Nograles, said the coalition’s local chapter has “slowly but surely” worked its way to tip-top shape and will be “ready and fully-equipped” in the May elections.

He said as the party is poised to convene next week to pick its presidential candidate, the Davao City chapter of the Lakas-Kampi-CMD has already come up with its nominees so that the party could field a full electoral slate in every district of the country.

“From Bankerohan to Lasang and Marilog, and from Agdao to Paquibato and Toril, Lakas in Davao City has covered the bases,” the young Nograles said. “That is the advantage of Lakas; we are the biggest and most organized political party.”

Lakas has been conducting surveys, both internal to the party and through reputable polling outfits, to guide the selection process of would-be candidates.

Speaker Nograles was the former national president of Lakas before it merged with Kampi. The elder Nograles now sits as vice chairman to President Gloria Arroyo in the merged Lakas-Kampi-CMD.

“We are happy with the outcome of the surveys, particularly for major positions in Davao City,” the lawyer said.

The young Nograles, who is said to be eyeing a congressional seat in the 1st District, said the coalition is not worried about its chances both in the local and national levels come 2010.

He said Lakas is proud of its performance in Davao, virtually changing the face of city in terms of infrastructure development. He said he and his father who is called “Team Nograles” in Davao City because of their drive to deliver social services and other pro-poor programs from medical and health care, to livelihood and education scholarships..

Mindanao Examiner TV Week in Review Aug. 30-Sept. 05, 2009

Mindanao Examiner TV Week in Review Aug. 30-Sept. 05, 2009 Part 1



Mindanao Examiner TV Week in Review Aug. 30-Sept. 05, 2009 Part 2

Davao kids get free bags, school supplies

Lawyer Karlo Nograles, son and chief of staff of House Speaker Prospero Nograles, leads the distribution of bags and school supplies to elementary students in Davao City.

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Some 10,000 schoolchildren in Davao City in Mindanao received bags and other supplies from House Speaker Prospero Nograles as part of a continuing program aimed at helping the poor.

The lawmaker’s son and chief of staff, lawyer Karlo Nograles, led the recent distribution of the bags and school supplies to the elementary children in the 1st District of Davao City.

“The hope of the country is these children and they need all the help they could get which is why Speaker Nograles decided to allocate some funds to give them bags and school supplies.”

“My father has various programs for the children and the youth, including scholarship program, wherein we provide free college education to poor students in the 1st District who wish to study in college,” the 33-year old lawyer said.

Nograles said aside from academic scholars, they also offer vocational courses and skills training to poor residents.

Ombudsman's stricter rules on SALN hit

Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez.

MANILA - The Office of the Ombudsman has tightened rules in furnishing the public with copies of government officials’ statement of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN).

To request for a SALN, a sworn statement before a prosecutor of the Ombudsman stating the reasons for the request. Before, only a simple letter-request had to be filed.

Aside from this, Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez’s Memorandum Circular No. 1 signed on June 16, 2009 requires the requesting party to present 2 government-issued identification cards.

Law mandates public access

The new rules may run contrary to the spirit and text of the law governing the filing of assets statements by government officials.

The access clause is actually a new provision in Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (RA 6713), which was enacted in February 1989—three years after the EDSA Revolution ousted the Marcoses.

An earlier law requiring the filing of SALNs, the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019), does not have this access provision.

RA 6713 specifically states that the statements filed under said law, such as the SALN, are supposed to be made available to the public for inspection as well as for copying or reproduction within 10 working days from the time they were filed.

The statements are supposed be kept available to the public for a period of 10 years after it was received by the designated repository office.

The law only required persons requesting for copies of the statements to (1) access or reproduce said statements “at reasonable hours” and “pay a reasonable fee to cover the cost of reproduction and mailing of such statement, as well as the cost of certification.”

The only limitations to access set forth in the law is, if the statements are used for “any purpose contrary to morals or public policy” or “any commercial purpose other than by news and communications media for dissemination to the general public.”

Harder to gain access?

The new rules essentially make the already difficult process of obtaining SALNs from repository agencies much more difficult. (See Wild Goose Chase)

Defending the new rules, however, assistant Ombudsman Jose de Jesus Jr. told The Philippine Star newspaper that, “There has to be a procedure.” The requirement, he said, would prove that the person requesting for the documents is “not fictitious.”

Requests of copies of SALNs would only be granted if these would be used for study purposes in school, disseminated to the general public through news, or if a court or any other or any other quasi-judicial agency asked for it.

The memorandum circular also stated: “This office is cognizant of the fact that in other times the request is made under circumstances which may endanger, diminish, or destroy the independence and objectivity of the Office of the Ombudsman and its officials in the performance of their quasi-judicial functions and expose them to revenge for adverse decisions.”

De Jesus said that they are just laying out requirements on how the public or the media to gain access to a public document.

“We have to put some regulations. This should not be construed as something to infringe on the people’s right to access to information or public documents,” he stressed.

He added that the measures were only to assure that the SALNs “will not be used for harassment.”

“We just would like to make sure that the request is legitimate and the copy will be used for a legitimate purpose and not for harassment or a fishing expedition,” he stressed.

“While the Office of the Ombudsman is willing to furnish copies (of the SALNs) of public officials and employees to persons requesting for the same, the reason for the same must be legitimate,” the order stated.

First family exposés

De Jesus also insisted that the new regulations have nothing to do with recent media exposés about President Arroyo and the First Family’s wealth.

The Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism recently came out with reports of the First Family’s wealth increase since President Arroyo became a public official.

They also came out with a report also showing the number of foundations established during Arroyo’s presidency.

Another investigative group, VERA Files, came out with a report on Pampanga Rep. Mike Arroyo's million-dollar home in San Francisco .

The reports were published after the President’s “lavish” dinner with other public officials at New York ’s Le Cirque restaurant during her US visit over a month ago.

Request denied

The Ombudsman's memorandum circular specifically points to specific instances wherein a request can be denied, especially when the applicant plans to use the SALNs for extortion or blackmail.

“Where the purpose stated is contrary to morals or public policy, or is commercial in nature other than by news and communication media for dissemination to the general public, the request shall be denied outright,” the order states.

De Jesus said the new rules are patterned after those of the Supreme Court, which implements even stricter rules in giving out copies of the SALNs of justices.

Under the law, the Office of the Ombudsman is the legal repository or keeper of the SALNs of presidents, vice presidents, and that of other constitutional officials working for agencies like the Commission on Human Rights and the Commission on Elections.

De Jesus said that SALNs of Cabinet secretaries are filed at the Office of the President while those of senators and congressmen are kept by the secretaries of the respective houses of Congress.

Chiz: SALNs should be on Internet

Meanwhile, Senator Francis 'Chiz' Escudero on Thursday criticized the new memorandum issued by the Ombudsman on the SALN.

“Kung ayaw mo hassle, kung ayaw mong mapintasan, kung ayaw mong makita ang mga ari-arian mo, di h’wag kang pumasok sa gubyerno. Kung ayaw mong ma-harass, magulo ang buhay mo h’wag kang pumasok sa gobyerno,” Escudero said.

“Hindi angkop at bagay ang salitang confidentiality sa salitang public document. Kapag sinabi mong public document para sa publiko. Hindi angkop o bagay gamitin na ipagbawal o limitahan iyan,” he added.

“Ang dapat nilang pangalagaan, interest at kapakanan ng publiko at ng sambayan at hindi ng opisyal,” he said.

Escudero said the Ombudsman's rules should not be a hindrance for the public to access the documents.

“Hindi na parang titulo na itinatabi at inilalagay sa loob ng kaha de yero. Iyan ay isang dokumento na tagapagtabi sila para kung sinuman ang may kailangan alam kung saan pupunta at kukunin,” he said.

Furthermore, Escudero believes that public officials’ SALNs should also be made available on the internet.

“Alam ninyo, dapat pa nga pina-publish sa internet ang SALN ng mga opisyal. Dahil wala ka dapat itinatago kaugnay sa mga assets mo o pati pagkakautang mo. Kaya para hindi na din kailangang magre-request, posted na lang sa internet dapat sana ang SALN ng isang opisyal,” Escudero said.

The Senate, he said, has passed a bill that would allow easier access to SALNs.

“Sa Senado may inapprove na kaming bill na pagdedebatihan na pinapalawak pa ang access at requirements kaugnay ng SALN kung saan nilalagyan na natin ng automatic waiver yung SALN pabor sa Ombudsman, Anti-Money Laundering Council, Bangko Sentral at Anti-Graft Commission para tingnan ang bank account ng sinumang opisyal. Pasado na sa komite nasa plenary na at handa nang pagdebatihan,” he said. (By Maria Althea Teves and Gemma Bagayaua Mendoza, abs-cbnnews.com / Newsbreak with reports from Philippine Star)


Link: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/09/10/09/ombudsmans-stricter-rules-saln-hit

North Cotabato ambush kills army soldier

KIDAPAWAN CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / September 10, 2009) – Gunmen ambushed and killed a government soldier on Thursday in the southern Philippines where security forces are battling communist and Muslim insurgents.

Police said the soldier, who was with a government militia, was visiting his farm in the village of Inas in North Cotabato town of Mlang when gunmen ambushed him. The militia was able to escape the ambush.

Police identified the soldier as Sergeant Tatu Sugang, a member of the Army’s 38th Infantry Battalion. His M16 rifle was also taken by the attackers.

The attack on the soldier came a day after security forces arrested five men implicated in the spate of bombings in Mindanao. The five were arrested in the town of Tantangan in South Cotabato province.

Police said the men are members of the Al-Khobar Gang, a criminal group tagged by authorities as behind the series of extortion activities and kidnappings-for-ransom in Mindanao. (With a report from Geo Solmerano)

Davao Flood Victims Get Food Aid

Lawyer Karlo Nograles, son and chief of staff of House Speaker Prospero Nograles, distributes rice packs and groceries to victims of a recent flooding in Matina Pangi in Davao City in Mindanao.

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Dozens of flood victims in the Mindanao city of Davao have received rice and grocery packs from the congressional office of House Speaker Prospero Nograles.

The solon’s son and chief of staff, lawyer Karlo Nograles, led the distribution of the food aid to the victims in Matina Pangi, which was hit by recent flooding.

The young Nograles said the rice and grocery distribution was part of the “Oplan Kalinga” program.

”Oplan Kalinga is a hunger mitigation program of my father so that poor residents in our district, especially those victims of floods can avail of this aid to cope with their situation,” he said.

Oplan Kalinga program is a year round initiative wherein Nograles visits different villages in the 1st Congressional District to provide food assistance to the poor, especially victims of calamities.

”House Speaker Nograles has allocated funds to ensure that victims of calamities can avail of free rice and groceries,” he said.

The lawyer urged those who needed help to visit the congressional office or village leaders.

Dennis Trillo, 1 pa naaksidente sa Boracay; kasamahan patay!

MAYNILA (Mindanao Examiner / September 9, 2009) – Isinugod kahapon sa pagamutan si Dennis Trillo at ang kasamang si Maxine Eidemann matapos ng umano’y isang trahedyang kumitil sa buhay ng kanilang kasamahang si Jolibee Bordajo sa Boracay island sa Bisayas.

Ayon sa ulat ng dzRH ay nadulas umano si Bordajo sa karagatan ng Boracay habang nagsasaya ang tatlo. Pinilit umanong sagipin nina Trillo (larawan mula sa facebook) si Bordajo ngunit nabigo ito at hindi na umano inabot ng pagamutan ang biktima.

Binigyan diumano ng first aid sina Trillo at Eidemann sa pagamutan sa nasabing isla.

Hindi naman nagbigay ng pahayag ang pagamutan at isinara umano pansamantala ito dahil sa dami ng taong nakikiusyoso sa naganap kina Trillo.

Nasa state of shock pa umano si Trillo at hindi makapaniwala sa naganap na trahedya. Hindi naman agad makunan ng pahayag ang kampo ni Trillo o ang pamilya nito ukol sa naturang balita. (Mindanao Examiner)

Philippine lawmaker announces presidential bid in 2010 polls

Holding a cigarette outside a chapel inside the Carmelite Monastery in Zamboanga City in Mindanao, Senator Benigno Aquino III and his companions relax after a meeting with nuns last week. (Mindanao Examiner Photo)

MANILA, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / September 9, 2009) – Senator Benigno Aquino III has announced Wednesday his candidacy for the presidency in next year’s national polls.

Aquino, son of former Philippine President Corazon Aquino and ex-senator Benigno Aquino, made the announcement at the Club Filipino in San Juan City. It was attended by many opposition politicians.

The Club Filipino was also the same place where Aquino’s mother took her oath as president in 1986. The former Philippine leader died in August due to cancer.

Critics said the senator was taking advantage of her mother’s popularity. Last week, Aquino went to Mindanao and met with his supporters and religious leaders to seek guidance whether to run or not in the presidential elections.

President Gloria Arroyo’s political party has not yet named its candidate that would challenge Aquino. (Mindanao Examiner)

Civilian injured in Davao City landmine blast

DAVAO CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / September 8, 2009) – A civilian was injured after a roadside bomb intended for government soldiers exploded Tuesday in Davao City in the southern Philippines, officials told the Mindanao Examiner.

Officials said the explosive was planted by communist rebel group New People’s Army in the village of Suawan in Marilog District.

No soldiers were wounded or killed in the attack, but their jeep was hit by shrapnel. A motorcycle driver, Ronald Sayan, who overtook the jeep was hit, said Captain Rosa Maria Cristina Manuel, a spokeswoman for the Army’s 10th Infantry Division.

She said the soldiers were on their way to a meeting with village officials when the NPA under rebel leader Leoncio Pitao detonated the explosive.

“The driver of a civilian motorcycle who overtook the troops was the one injured by the IED blast. No one was injured on the troops, but the KM450 vehicle was hit by shrapnel,” she said.

Manuel said the injured civilian was rushed by soldiers to hospital. (Mindanao Examiner)

Public should not pay for tax on cellphone texting, says House Speaker

MANILA, Philippines - Speaker Prospero Nograles has assured that any move to raise revenues to support the national government’s development programs should not add to the burdens of the tax paying public.

"We will not allow any such additional taxes on the shoulders of the public," Nograles assured.

With this position, the Speaker said he will ask an assurance from the authors of the so-called "tax-on-text" bill and the Committee on Ways and Means chaired by Antique Rep. Exequiel Javier that any tax on text will not increase the existing text cost now being billed on millions of consumers before throwing his full support for this measure.

"It is very clear that based on our previous hearings on this text issue, there is no need to increase cost on the short messaging system service of our telcos because the P1 per text that is already being charged from the consumers is more than enough to cover the five centavo tax for each text," Nograles said adding that based on studies, the estimated threshold amount or cost of text is about 25 centavos.

"There will be no additional cost on texting. Based on our estimates, our telcos still rake in a lot of profit at a cost of 50 centavos per text. So instead cutting down on the cost of texting, telcos should allocate at least 20 % of their profit to a trust fund for education and health care. It is my position that the proposed additional tax on text will be borne by the service providers and that the consumers will not be paying additional costs for texting," Nograles added.

The ways and means panel has just approved a substitute bill to House Bill 6625, authored by Deputy Speaker Eric Singson, in consolidation with the pertinent proposed provisions covered by House Resolution 282 filed by Committee on Oversight chairman Danilo Suarez.

The still unnumbered substitute bill will contain the provision, subject to style, found in the original Singson bill (HB 6625).

Nograles stressed that under HB 6625, Section 6, "The excise tax levied herein shall be paid and absorbed by the Mobile phone and overseas dispatch or message service providers who shall be prohibited from passing on the cost of such tax payments, either directly or indirectly to any consumer in whatever form or manner, it being the express intent of this Act that the excise tax shall be borne and absorbed exclusively by the mobile phone and overseas dispatch or message service providers. Provided, that any violation of this Section shall be a cause for suspension of the franchise granted to such mobile phone or overseas dispatch or message providers; Provided further, that, such suspension shall be in addition to any of the applicable penalties enumerated under the NIRC of 1997, as amended."

The above mentioned provision shall be included in the substitute bill, subject to style, before the Committee on Rules chaired by Majority Leader Arthur Defensor shall schedule the same for plenary consideration, fine tuning if need be, before approval.

"I support the House leadership's stand of not passing such additional tax burden on to the texting public," Defensor said.

HR 282, which was adopted by the House of Representatives on December 17 last year, directed the Committee on Ways and Mean to conduct an inquiry, in aid of legislation, on the possibility of installing a metering device to directly link the BIR, NTC and telecommunications companies to be able to capture all the revenues by the mobile telecommunications companies in their database such as, but not limited to, e-loading, sale of prepaid cards, text messaging and interconnection fees to generate additional revenues in line with the balanced budget target of the government under the 10-point agenda of the Arroyo administration. (Gil Bugaoisan)

Rapper Andew E. Performs in Mindanao's Digos City

Filipino rapper Andrew E. performs Tuesday, September 8, 2009 before a huge crowd in Digos City in the southern Philippines which is celebrating 9th Araw ng Digos. (Mindanao Examiner Photo / Geo Solmerano)

Filipino ferry disaster survivor tells ordeals, prayer and determination to live saved her from death

Ferry tragedy survivor Lita Casumlum is hoisted to a Philippine Air Force chopper after she was rescued Monday, September 7, 2009 by the 505th Search and Rescue Squadron based at the headquarters of the 3rd Air Division in Zamboanga City. (Photo courtesy of 3rd Air Division / 505th Search and Rescue Squadron).

Superferry 9 survivor Lita Casumlum at a military hospital in Zamboanga City in the southern Philippines, Tuesday, September 8, 2009. (Mindanao Examiner Photo)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / September 8, 2009) – A Filipino woman who was rescued at sea 30 hours after her ferry sank off the southern province of Zamboanga del Norte said prayer and determination to live has saved her from death.

Lita Casumlum, 39, was plucked out at sea off Sirawai town on Monday after being drifted for more than a day. Her husband, Pepito, 40, their son Christopher, 7, and nephew, Sweden, 24, were rescued Sunday along with more than 900 passengers of the ill-fated Superferry 9.

The ferry was heading to Iloilo province in central Philippine from General Santos City when it listed on its right side and eventually sank. At least 9 passengers had perished and dozens more are still missing.

Lying on bed at a military hospital in Zamboanga City, Casumlum said she prayed the whole time, asking for God to save her from death. She also prayed for her son and husband and nephew after they were separated.

“I never thought I would be rescued. I just prayed and prayed hard that some ships or fishing boats or the navy will rescue me, but there was none. No ships until I saw the helicopter.”

“I don’t know what to do. All I remember was that we were separated when we jumped out to the water. The current was strong and I kept calling my husband’s name, my son, but I was drifting away and away and far.”

“I was so tired. The sea was so cold, everything is cold at night and it was so hot during the day. I was hungry and drank sea water only. I thought I would never see my son and husband and nephew again. I cannot explain my feelings. I am so happy to be alive,” she said.

Casulum said they want to go back home, but her condition is preventing her from traveling.

“My whole body is in pain. We want to go back home in Iloilo (province), but I feel so week. Thank God and we are all alive,” she said.

The woman could hardly speak. Her throat was painful. Military medical staff at the Philippine Air Force’s 3rd Air Division hospital said the Casulum has sore throat because of the sea water she drank while drifting at the cold sea for more than a day until she was found by the 505th Search and Rescue Squadron.

Casulum’s husband said they would never forget the tragedy.

“It was really scary. Thank God that Lita is alive, our son and nephew are alive. I cannot forget this happened to us. It is a miracle that we all survived. I pity my wife. She is in pain – look at her, her face is swollen, her arms are swollen. She is really in pain, but we are also happy because we are all here together.”

“I don’t know what really happened. There was a loud noise like something that hit below from where we were staying (economy section). We don’t know if it were cargoes hitting each other. Others say there was an explosion. And then the lights went out and there was no electricity and all turned on again and then it was all gone,” he said.

“We can hear people screaming and crying and somebody was shouting to abandon our ship,” he added.

Pepito also showed the life vest her wife had used, his eyes teary from the memory of the tragedy and the news that 9 people had perished from the September 6 sinking of the Superferry 9.

Air Force Major Antonio Mandaue, who was part of the rescue operations, said it took them more than an hour to locate Casulum.

“It was really a dramatic rescue operation. We deployed two Bell helicopters from the Philippines Air Force 505th Search and Rescue Squadron to search for ferry survivors off Sirawai. We knew the current was really strong, the waves are huge but we continued until we spotted Lita Casumlum at sea.”

“She was like a dot in the vast blue ocean. Her orange life jacket was the only thing that told rescuers that she was from that boat. It was sheer determination to save lives that rescuers were thinking of at that moment. We are losing time by the hour and we know that difficulties of all those involved in the search and rescue. Strong wind, big waves and time was running out,” he said.

He said Casulum was plucked at sea by an air force rescuer using a cable and winch until the woman was secured. “She was not moving when the chopper brought her to an army base in Sirawai for first aid. I thought she was dead – she was badly burned by the sun, her face was swollen and she looked bad – until she moved and we were all glad that she has survived for more than a day in the cold of the water and the extreme heat of the sun.”

“She was trembling and thirsty and hungry when she arrived and she could hardly speak because of sore throat. We gave her first aid and water and blanket to warm her body, but the shock of lives came when found two crabs - about 2 inches big – inside her pockets and I thought it was what saved her. We don’t even know how the crabs got inside her pockets,” Mandaue said.

He said the woman was lucky to have survived the tragedy. “The chopper found her more than an hour of searching at 500 feet. It was sheer luck that the chopper flew near her position and she was spotted. I estimated her to be about 15 nautical miles away from where the Superferry 9 sank,” he said.

Mandaue is the liaison officer of the 3rd Air Division in Zamboanga del Norte province. (Mindanao Examiner)

Panamanian vessel sinks off Central RP, 4 Koreans, 15 Filipinos; ferry survivor rescued

Photographs released by the military's Western Mindanao Command on Monday, September 07, 2009 show rescuers rushing to the Superferry 9 off Zamboanga del Norte province in the southern Philippines. At least 9 passengers were killed and dozens more are still missing after the ferry went down on Sunday. More than 900 people have been rescued from the ill-fated vessel which was heading to the central Filipino province of Iloilo from General Santos City in Mindanao. (Mindanao Examiner)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / September 7, 2009) – The Philippine Coast Guard on Monday rescued 19 crew members of a Panamanian cargo ship which sank off Samar province.

Military search team also rescued Monday a passenger, Lita Casumlum, of the ill-fated Superferry 9 that sank off Zamboanga del Norte province over the weekend, said Army First Lieutenant Steffani Cacho, a spokeswoman for the Western Mindanao Command in Zamboanga City.

She said the woman, a native of Iloilo province, was found floating at sea by 505th Search and Rescue Squadron of the Philippine Air Force and brought to Zamboanga City.

“The rescue operation is still going off Zamboanga del Norte,” she told the Mindanao Examiner.

At least 944 passengers and crew members of the Superferry 9 have been rescued since Sunday, but dozens more are still missing. At least 9 passengers were reported killed in the tragedy, including a two-year boy.

In Samar, the Coast Guard said it rescued 4 Koreans and 15 Filipinos from the MV Hera after it sank 11 nautical miles east of Hilaban Island. The crew members were on a lifeboat when they were spotted by two helicopters from the 505th Search and Rescue Squadron.

The Coast Guard said it received a report late Sunday from the Hong Kong Maritime Coordinating Center that the Panamanian vessel was taking water. It was sailing to China’s Jangiagang province from Papua New Guinea when MV Hera listed on its side.

“As of 8:50 a.m. this morning, FB (fishing boat) Pilano-3 with Philippine Coast Guard personnel on board is towing the lifeboat of MV Hera off Tubabao Island with four Korean nationals and fifteen Filipinos on board,” the Coast Guard said.

It was unknown whether the Panamanian vessel hit a reef or not, but the Coast Guard said there is an ongoing investigation and so with the Superferry 9. (Mindanao Examiner)

Like Father, Like Son: Karlo Nograles follows footsteps of great Pa

HEART TO LISTEN: One of the marks of a true leader is having the heart to listen to the needs of his constituents at all times. And House Speaker Prospero Nograles, in his many years as a public servant and a congressman in the 1st District of Davao City in the southern Philippines, has listened to the clamor of the people.

And now, his son and chief-of-staff, lawyer Karlo Nograles, who is following the solon’s footsteps, also take time to listen to the concerns of their constituents. During a recent barangay visit, the young Nograles assures the residents of the continued development and humanitarian projects by his father. The solon and his son have, in many years, launched various programs and assistance for the poor – health care, skills and livelihood trainings, educational scholarships among others.

Lawyer Nograles has urged those who needed help to visit the congressional office along Quirino Avenue in Davao City or their village leaders.

Philippine ferry sinks, 2 killed; 88 missing off Zamboanga province

Medical personnel attend to ferry disaster victims in Zamboanga City in the southern Philippines on Sunday, September 6, 2009. The Philippine Coast Guard says the Superferry 9 sunk off Zamboanga del Norte province after it listed on its side and capsized. It said the vessel had 847 passengers and 117 crewmen and four sea marshals. It was unknown why the vessel, which came from General Santos City enroute to the central Philippine province of Iloilo, listed off Sirawai town. (Mindanao Examiner Photo / Amilbahar Mawallil)

ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / September 6, 2009) – A passenger ship carrying more than 900 people sank Sunday off Zamboanga del Norte province in the southern Philippines, military officials told the Mindanao Examiner.

Officials said two passengers were killed and 761 others have been rescued from the ill-fated Superferry 9 off Sirawai town. Other reports said at least 3 passengers were killed and dozens more are missing after the ship tilted on its side and eventually capsized and sank.

“As of last count, 761 passengers have been rescued while two dead bodies were also recovered,” said Army First Lieutenant Steffani Cacho, a spokeswoman for the Western Mindanao Command.

It was unknown why the ship listed on its side. Cacho said the ship was sailing to Iloilo province from General Santos City when its captain Jose Yap sent out a distressed signal at around 3.30 a.m. “At 8.30 in the morning, the vessel is completely capsized,” Cacho told the Mindanao Examiner.

The Coast Guard said the ship sunk at past 10 a.m. It said the vessel had 847 passengers and 117 crewmen and four sea marshals.

She said four navy boats were sent to help in the search ands rescue.

“About 30 life crafts were deployed and also four navy patrol vessels, two civilian ships, the MV Myriad and MV Ocean Integrity are conducting rescue operation together with the Coast Guard. Two UH-1H choppers and two OV-10 planes have also deployed to assist in the search and rescue,” Cacho said.

The Coast Guard said 880 people had been rescued and 88 more are still missing.

“As of 1155H, rescued passengers as per latest consolidated report by PCG units and Aboitiz Management: Aboard MV Integrity 268 persons; Aboard MV Myriad 441 persons; Aboard Navy vessel 171 persons; Casualties 3; Total accounted: 880; To be accounted: 88.”

“Total on board SF9: 968 persons when the incident happened. Ongoing rescue operations continue. The said survivors and the 2 fatalities and 4 injured will be brought to Zamboanga City for medical attention and accounting of passengers,” it said. (Mindanao Examiner)

Army man runs amuck, kills 2 soldiers; 6 more wounded in Southern Philippines

MAGUINDANAO, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / September 4, 2009) – Two army soldiers were killed and five others wounded after an infantryman opened fire on them Friday in the southern Philippines, officials told the Mindanao Examiner.

Officials said the shooter, Technical Sergeant Policarpio dela Cruz, was also shot and wounded by other soldiers. “He was rushed to hospital along with the other wounded soldiers,” said Colonel Jonathan Ponce, a spokesman for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division.

Those killed in the shooting were identified as Sergeant Bernard de Guzman and Private First Class Christopher Pagatpatan. While the wounded were Lieutenant Colonel Aniceto Vicente, Major Fe Ea, Second Lieutenant Grace Sumalbag, Sergeant Ronaldo Saraza and Corporal Dennis Bergante.

The attack occurred at around 4.30 p.m. in the village of Tugaig in Maguindanao’s Barira town shortly after the soldiers arrived for a meeting at an army headquarters.

“Dela Cruz suddenly fired his M16 rifle indiscriminately and hitting the soldiers,” Ponce said.

The motive of the shooting is still unknown, but the spokesman said Dela Cruz was observed to be acting abnormally before the attack. “Initial investigation disclosed that Dela Cruz is observed to be mentally imbalance. A thorough investigation is ongoing,” he said. (Mindanao Examiner)

Support for displaced civilians in southern Philippines needed: WHO

COTABATO CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / September 4, 2009) - The World Health Organization is seeking nearly $1 million to provide assistance to hundreds of thousands of people displaced from their homes by fighting between troops and rebels on the southern Philippine island of Mindanao.

“Urgent financial and material support is needed to strengthen the health response to this humanitarian crisis and reduce the suffering so many people are facing,” Soe Nyunt-U, Country Representative of the World Health Organization, said in a statement Friday.

WHO said more than 300 people have reportedly been killed since clashes began in August 2008 between government troops and separatists in the area.

In addition, some 350,000 to 400,000 people have been displaced, a quarter of whom are housed in 164 camps in six provinces, while the rest are staying with relatives or taking refuge in makeshift shelter.

Recent flooding has made matters worse by displacing more people, according to the agency. Local authorities estimate that some 300,000 people had been affected by monsoon rains, and more can be expected with the typhoon season approaching.

The funds being sought – about $914,000 – will help to ensure the provision of health services to internally displaced persons (IDPs), who are facing various health risks ranging from malnutrition and diarrhea to respiratory illness and psychosocial trauma.

WHO said it plans to establish a field office in Mindanao, control communicable disease outbreaks by supplying medicines and other emergency health provisions to local health providers, and recruit new health staff or strengthen capacities of existing staff to improve the delivery of basic health services.

Noynoy Aquino seeks spiritual guidance in Zamboanga City

Senator Benigno Aquino III on Friday, September 4, 2009 privately met with the Carmelite Sisters (Order of Discalced Carmelite) at a monastery in Zamboanga City in Mindanao to seek spiritual advice whether to run for the presidency in next year’s elections. (Mindanao Examiner Photo)

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / September 4, 2009) – The son of former Philippine President Corazon Aquino, Senator Benigno Aquino III, on Friday privately met with the Carmelite Sisters in Zamboanga City in Mindanao to seek spiritual advice whether to seek for the presidency in next year’s elections.

Aquino, guarded by members of the local Police SWAT team, arrived at around 9 a.m. at the monastery of the Order of Discalced Carmelite where she was met by Sr. Edilla Teresa Ratilla and Sr. Mary Gloria Limbaga.

The monastery was where Aquino’s mother went for a retreat in 1985 before she decided to run for president against Filipino dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

Yellow ribbons were also tied around street poles and trees outside and inside the monastery. The yellow motif was used by Aquino’s mother and the opposition during the campaign in the 1986 snap elections against Filipino dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

The nuns also gave Aquino a prayer pamphlet before leading him to a room where the senator met with Sr. Agnes Guillen, the monastery’s prioress.

”The meeting is private, we cannot allow the media and we hope you understand,” the prioress told the Mindanao Examiner by phone prior to the meeting.

Aquino was in Davao City on Thursday and also met with supporters and came to Zamboanga for spiritual retreat and to seek guidance from the nuns.

At the monastery, Aquino held a closed door meeting with the nuns for about 2 hours and came out for a brief smoke and then prayed at the monastery’s chapel before eating lunch with the Carmelite Sisters.

“I thank all those who are supporting me,” Aquino said, but it was unknown whether he would pursue the presidency.

Senator Mar Roxas, of the Liberal Party, who earlier said he would seek the presidency, has backed out Wednesday in favor of Aquino. Pampanga provincial governor Eduardo Panlilo, a former Catholic priest, had announced he would run for the president, but also backed out Friday and said he would only support Aquino. (Mindanao Examiner)

Stronger RP-China Ties: Chinese officials meet with Philippine House Speaker Prospero Nograles

Speaker Prospero Nograles, (left), warmly receives a visiting delegation of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National People’s Congress, People’s Republic of China during a courtesy call on the Speaker at his Batasan office on September 2, 2009. The Speaker is shown shaking hands with Hon. Jiang Futang, delegation head, member of the Standing Committee of the NPC and Vice-Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee of the NPC, as H. E. Liu Jianchao appreciatively listens. Present were members of the Chinese delegation, including Hon Qi Xuchun who is also a member of the NPC Standing Committee and a Vice-Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the NPC, and Hon Xu Genchu, member of the said committee.

Anti-Torture and Climate Change Bills to become landmark laws in Philippines

MANILA, Philippines - Speaker Prospero Nograles on Thursday said the approved final versions of the proposed "Anti-Torture Act of 2009" and "Climate Change Act of 2009" would soon become landmark laws promoting environment and human rights protection.

"We approved yesterday the conference committee reports which reconciled the House and Senate versions of the proposed landmark laws, both aimed at promoting quality human development," Nograles said.

The committee report on the Anti-Torture Act is a reconciled version of HB 5709 and SB 1978, while that of the proposed "Climate Change Act" is the consolidation of HB 5982 and SB 2583.

Majority Leader Arthur Defensor explained that "once the enrolled or final copies of the reconciled versions are approved by both chambers of Congress, printed (enrolled) copies are sent to the President for her appropriate action.

"Even as the budget deliberation on committee level has started, our legislative agenda will not be derailed," Defensor said.

The House, likewise approved on 3rd reading HB 6633, to be known as the "Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity," and HB 6517 or the "Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009."

The House also adopted 24 various House Resolutions and approved on 3rd and final reading twelve (12) bills of various local concerns.

Also during plenary, the chamber presented House Resolution 555, citing the achievements of this year's winners of the Metro Bank Foundation Outstanding Teachers award.

Authors of HB 6633 (crimes against humanitarian law..) include Reps. Roilo Golez, Deputy Speaker Simeon Datumanong, Rufus Rodriguez, Mat Defensor, Lorenzo Tanada III, Salvador Escudero III, Jose Carlos Lacson, Rafael Mariano, Eduardo Nonato Joson, Edgardo Chatto, Luzviminda Ilagan, Joseph Emilio Abaya, Al Francis Bichara, Niel Tupas, Jr., and Deputy Majority Leader Jesus Crispin Remulla.

The authors stressed that the “State values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights, including the rights of indigenous cultural communities and other vulnerable groups.”

Authors of HB 6517 are Reps. Monico Puentevella, Irwin Tieng, Rufus Rodriguez, Mat Defensor, Bienvenido Abante, Eufrocino Codilla, Sr, and Deputy Speaker Amelita Villarosa.

Under HB 6517, appropriate penalties will be imposed against acts that would destroy or have the tendency to destroy the honor, dignity and integrity of a person, especially women. (Gil Bugaoisan)

Photo and Video Services - Mindanao Examiner Productions

Philippine leader graces oath taking of new press fotogs in Mindanao

Filipino leader Gloria Arroyo graces the oath taking ceremony of new members of the Press Photographers of the Philippines in Cotabato City and General Santos City Chapters held at the Isla Parilla resort in Sarangani’s Alabel town recently. The ceremony was witnessed by PPP National President Jerry Carual, left, and Press Secretary Cerge Remonde. Mindanao Examiner bureau chief for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Mark Navales is elected Cotabato City PPP Chapter President while Paul Bernaldez is the PPP’s General Santos City Chapter President. (Photo by Joe Harris Tanodra)

Mikey Arroyo, isa ng Youtube sensation!

MAYNILA (Mindanao Examiner / September 3, 2009 – Nagmistulang isang Youtube sensation si Presidential son, Rep. Juan (Mikey) Miguel Arroyo, matapos na lumutang ang interview nito sa GMA-7 ukol sa mga ari-arian sa Estados Unidos.

Sensation nga na maituturing, ngunit hindi dahil sa pagiging singer or artista tulad nina Charice at Arnel Pineda, subalit dahil sa dami ng mga batikos na natanggap nito mula sa mga ibat-ibang Youtube users at makikita ang mga pasaring kay Mikey sa http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4q0JKzpjh_o.





Ito ay may kinalaman sa pag-amin na ginawa ni Mikey sa naturang panayam na galing ang yaman nito sa mga political donors at regalo ng mga kung sino-sino ng ito ay ikasal sa sariling pinsan.

Sa Youtube channel ni “Pinaswatcher” ay isa Jesse Pauleen ang nagsabing: “nagtangatangahan pero hindi nag I'M SORRY...hindi naturuan ng nanay ang batang ito... inamin pa ng kolokoy na tumatanggap xa ng pera sa eleksyon pati regalo sa kasal isinama?...may nakalimutan pa ata ang buhong... jueteng at lahar illegal income hindi isinama? bwahahahaha.....mabuti pa cnabi na lang nya pumupusta xa sa tuwing laban ni manny pacquiao kaya lumobo ang ulo nya..este...ung kayamanan nya…”

Nuong Agosto 31 lamang na-upload ang interview kay Mikey ni Arnold Clavio ng GMA-7 ngunit umabot na sa mahigit 23,000 ang hits nito at karamihan ay galit, pagmumura ang batikos na nakuha mula sa publiko – hindi lamang sa mga Pinoy, ngunit maging mga dayuhan rin na nakatutok sa mga Arroyo ang pagbabantay.

Isang user pa na nagpakilalang si Stanley ang nag-iwan ng comment: “Mikey, you are so arrogant, you really think you are above the law. I hope you get to watch yourself and see how stupid you look. You are no match to Winnie Monsod. You can't even look at her because you know she knows you are LYING. Si Arnold naman parang trying to soften the words of Winnie, kakainis.”

Mula naman kay Malaya1025 ay sinabing nitong: “What a brave face...caught in his own words...Remember the smoke of irregularities and misdeeds will explode in to flame and burn your greediness! "

Malinaw umano sa mga nag-iwan ng comment sa nakapanood na interview ni Mikey na matindi ang galit at suklam ng marami sa mga Arroyo. Kaliwa’t-kanan ang iskadalong dumating sa pamahalaang Arroyo mula ng maupo ang Pangulo nuong 2001. (Mindanao Examiner)

TVIRD completes 6th shipment of Canatuan copper concentrates

TVIRD officials headed by its President Eugene Mateo and John Ridsdel, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, pose with Siocon Subanon tribal leaders, among them is Timuoy Jose Anoy, during a recent reunification ceremony between tribal chieftains in Mount Canatuan in Zamboanga del Norte province in the southern Philippines. (Mindanao Examiner Photo)

ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / September 3, 2009) - The TVI Resource Development (Phils.), Inc. (TVIRD) on Thursday said it has completed its sixth shipment of copper concentrates produced at the Canatuan Mine in Zamboanga del norte's Siocon town.

It said the concentrates were shipped from the TVIRD warehouse facility at Santa Maria Port in Siocon in accordance with the offtake arrangement previously entered into between TVIRD and MRI Trading AG (MRI).

The company said it expects to receive a total of US$5.4 million from MRI for roughly 5,264 dry metric tonnes (dmt) of copper concentrates, representing approximately 90% of the estimated value of the total shipment.

Final payment for the remaining sale price of the concentrates (approximately 10%) is due once final details relating to weight, assays and prices are determined, it said.

“This shipment occurred four weeks after the previous shipment, reflecting increased operating throughput and concentrate production achieved by the mine in August. It is anticipated that future shipments of approximately 5,000 dmt each will occur approximately every four weeks depending on specific shipping and marketing arrangements,” the company said in a statement.

The offtake agreement provides that MRI will purchase all of the copper concentrates produced at Canatuan over the anticipated life of the sulphide operation. To date, the Canatuan Mine has produced about 31,300 dmt of copper concentrate. Of that production, some 29,705 dmt has been sold through the offtake agreement with MRI, bringing the company’s total expected gross revenue to US$34.1 million for 2009.

It said funds generated from the sale of the copper concentrates are expected to be allocated by TVIRD to working capital and debt service. (Mindanao Examiner)

Philippine Army TVC - Mindanao Examiner Productions

Philippine Army TVC Katuwang sa Pag Unlad - Mindanao Examiner Productions.



Philippine Army TVC Karapatan Pantao - Mindanao Examiner Productions.

Siocon Tribal Leaders Reunite For Good

Subanon tribal leader Jose Anoy is being assisted as he dons a traditional garb during the reunification of tribal leaders in Mount Canatuan in the town of Siocon in Zamboanga del Norte province in Mindanao on August 27, 2009. And Anoy shakes hands with TVIRD President Eugene Mateo as as TVIRD Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John Ridsdel looks on. He is also greeted by other Subanon tribal leaders. (Mindanao Examiner Photo Service)

MOUNT CANATUAN, Philippines - The Subanon tribal leaders of Siocon in Zamboanga del Norte province – after almost a decade of conflict – have finally united to set aside their differences and strengthen their tribal leadership through a gradual process of reconciliation and reunification.

The decision enabled them to put their past differences aside and work together in the future to take advantage - through the Ancestral Domain Sustainable Development and Protection Plan (ADSPP) that they will draft together as one tribe - of the opportunity provided by a mining project and create a sustainable indigenous community.

The reunification was formally acknowledged in a memorable ceremony of all the tribe on August 27 when Jose Anoy was bestowed the title of timuoy which means chieftain of Siocon, following the customary rites of the Subanon indigenous people of the Pito Kodolongan or Seven Rivers of the Zamboanga Peninsula.

Gulang Gukom Noval Lambo, the senior timuoy of the Seven Rivers, reaffirmed Anoy’s position in the tribe, which was recognized and endorsed by all the members of the Siocon tribe’s Council of Elders (COE).

“Moktolipun numunkitu kinilolaan si Boy Anoy nog iyon og timuoy sog CADT (From now on, Boy Anoy is recognized as the timuoy of the CADT),” Lambo said in Subanon as he placed a traditional timuoy garb on Anoy’s shoulders.

Anoy responded: “Mokposolamat u nog moktolipun numunkitu kinilolaan na og golal u kuni. Na’amu mog kalanngalang mokpolani dianakon bila ongon og glogon niu. (I am grateful that my rank in the CADT area has been recognized. Do not hesitate to approach me whatever your problem may be and I am ready to help you as best as I can.)

At one point during the ceremonies, Anoy danced to the beat of indigenous musical instruments before his tribe and people.

By “CADT”, Lambo and Anoy were referring to the Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title awarded by the Philippine government to the Subanons of Siocon on June 12, 2003, benefiting some 2,000 tribal members.

The CADT encompasses a total of 8,213 hectares of land straddling the villages of Tabayo and Candiz, both in the town of Siocon, as well as the village of Kilalaban in adjacent Baliguian town.

Within the CADT is the 508-hectare area under the Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA), which had been signed by the Philippine government and TVI Resource Development Philippines, Inc. (TVIRD) on October 23, 1996, prior to the awarding of the CADT to the Subanons.

TVIRD has been producing copper concentrates from its Canatuan MPSA area since March of this year, following the company’s previous operations at the same location that produced gold and silver from July 2004 to April 2008.

“We are pleased with the reunification of the leaders of this tribe,” TVIRD President Eugene Mateo said in Filipino. “We waited for this to happen for a long time. We congratulate you for agreeing to come back together as one tribe. Let us help each other in the development of your CADT. You can be assured that while our company is here, we will support your plans for the progress of your community.”

Mateo stressed that TVIRD will keep its commitment to support the Subanons during the formulation of their ADSDPP.

Abdul Puengan, Director of the government National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) in Western Mindanao, said he is happy to have witnessed “this memorable day.”

“At last tribal leaders recognize Timuoy Anoy. Congratulations! Your CADT was given to you in 2003, but it failed to take off because of the disunity among its leaders. Today is indeed a remarkable moment for all Subanons,” he said, speaking before the Subanon people who witnessed the historic reunification ceremony.

For her part, Jessica Lucero, Director of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) for Western Mindanao, said she hopes “this occasion will mark the beginning of a stronger teamwork (among the Subanons, the government and TVIRD) towards the attainment of our dream of developing the Subanon homeland.”

Under the Philippine Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act of 1997, the CADT claimants should draft the ADSDPP with officers of the NCIP. The Plan should include sections on indigenous knowledge systems and practices, a profile of the domain’s natural resources, analysis of the area’s development needs, and a commitment to maintain ecological balance. Once the Plan has been fine-tuned, the community as a whole will be responsible for managing the domain.

The reunification of the tribe and the reaffirmation of Anoy’s leadership have finally put an end to years of disagreements over the personalities of leadership, as well as the direction of the community with regard to development.

The tribal spokesman Onsino Mato said the formal conferment of the timuoy rank to Anoy is the “ultimate day ng ating pagkakaintindihan (of our agreement)…as we recognize the traditional leader of our tribe.”
Addressing the members of the COE, Mato said: “In the name of Apo Manglang (in Subanon tradition, the founder of the Siocon tribe)...we will never forsake you or leave you. Lahat ng mga pangulo sa tribo, moghambulok na! (All the leaders of the tribe, unite!)”

Bonifacio Patoh, village chairman of Tabayo and the Siocon Subanon Association, Inc. (SSAI), said “Anoy can bank on our full support, especially during the drafting of the ADSDPP. We’ve always wanted to do the ADSDPP. Now that the tribe is united, we can proceed with the ADSDPP because our fellow tribe people in the CADT have been waiting for the plan for a long time. I wish to thank all those who helped us become one again. Thank you, Timuoy Lambo. Thank you TVIRD.”

Paul Arias, manager of the TVIRD Canatuan, said in his speech that “the only way to development is through peace and the only way to peace is through reconciliation.”

The path to Subanon oneness - spurred by the need to draft their ADSDPP - began in August 2008, when members of various Subanon groups in Canatuan participated in a capacity-building workshop on the ADSDPP. These organizations were the COE, the Siocon Subanon Association Inc. (SSAI), the Siocon Subanon Women’s Association Inc. (SSWAI), and the Siocon Youth Organization (SYO).

In May and June 2009, the NCIP facilitated separate meetings between the COE members and Anoy who all agreed then to start their ADSDPP formulation process. And on June 12, on the occasion of the 6th Anniversary of the Siocon CADT, Timuoy Lambo spearheaded the initial talks of the Subanon peace process. On June 27, a “cleansing ritual” became the highlight of the reconciliation and reunification meeting among members of Anoy’s group, the COE and the SSAI.

During the August 27 rites called Gumpia Nog Pigbogolalan Sog Bonua Nog Siocon, Zamboanga Del Norte which means “Putting in order the tribal leadership and organizational structure in Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte,” Timuoy Doring Sangila of Baliguian led the burning of incense, which, according to Subanon belief, would carry their prayers to their god Mikpongon.

Sangila also passed around to the other timuoys who participated in the ritual a white chicken, symbolizing peace and purity of intention to reconcile and unite and in keeping with the ritual’s theme Gomigus Bu’supali Biniyanan Sogpopaya’ or “In friendship there is oneness.”

“The reconciliation is one of the best things that ever happened in our CADT area,” said Nena Anoy, a member of the SSWAI. “It means the beginning of the development that we have dreamed of since we forged a partnership with TVIRD. I say this because before the reconciliation, our tribal leaders failed to sit down to formulate a development plan for the CADT. Now I heard that soon, the formulation of our ADSDPP will start. I am one of those who are happy that Timuoy Boy Anoy and other leaders have reconciled and reunited.”

“The Paduan event was something that I am very proud of,” said Joel Comisas, vice president of SYO. “It showed that our tribal leaders are able to set aside their personal differences and interests for the good of the entire tribe. This is something worth emulating by Subanon youths like me. Like other Subanon in the CADT, I hope and pray that the unification process will continue forward and that, soon, our tribal leaders, with Timuoy Boy Anoy taking the lead, will complete the ADSDPP for the CADT area so that every Subanon will be able enjoy the benefits of mining.”

The Subanons gifted TVIRD’s top management officials with the traditional Subanon timuoy clothing, which the guests wore for the entire duration of the ritual. Apart from Mateo, the other officials who participated in the event were John Ridsdel, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, who also conveyed his best wishes to the Subanons in their own language; Feliece Yeban, Vice President for Social Commitments; Jay Nelson, Vice President for Environment and Civil Works; and Rocky Dimaculangan, Director for Public Affairs.

Arias was joined by other members of TVIRD’s Canatuan Management Team, led by Germidas Laspinas, Officer-in-Charge of the Canatuan Operations; Pete Remoto, Mine Manager; Theresa Limpin, Community Relations and Development Office (CReDO) Manager; Edilberto Nercuit, Civil Engineering Services Manager; Lullie Micabalo, Public Affairs Manager; and Ulysses Silorio, Company Physician. Rosalie Tiongco, Corporate Human Resources and Development Manager; and Valentin Edang, Security Consultant, also came to witness the event.

TVIRD staff members were also on hand to show their support for the reunification of the company’s gracious Subanon hosts. They were Rocelle Magpayo, Social Commitments Program Officer; Rowena Adem, Executive Assistant to the General Manager; Gemma Tolentino, Company Forrester; Jose Dagala and Noelle Nazareno, CReDO Information Officer and Communication Specialist, respectively; Joana Tiglao, Public Affairs Assistant; and Lois Ladera, Company Nurse.

“While the ritual was ongoing, the skies opened momentarily to bring rains – believed to be a good sign that God was showering the event with blessings,” one Subanon said.

“It was already mid-afternoon when the traditional ceremonies ended. Mato invited everyone to take a sip of panggasi – Subanon rice wine – in the jars onstage. As people began to leave the hall, many heaved a sigh of relief; there was an unmistakable feeling of joy in everyone.”

“But everybody also agreed that the road to peace and development will still be long, winding and paved with challenges for this tribe. Nonetheless, with the openness and sincerity demonstrated by the leaders in the long process leading to this event were to be a gauge, the future looks promising indeed for the Subanons of Siocon,” said Dimaculangan. (Lullie Micabalo)

House starts budget deliberations

MANILA, Philippines - Speaker Prospero Nograles on Wednesday called on each member of Congress to "set aside divisive politics for the time being" as the House of Representatives starts committee deliberations on the proposed P1.541-trillion national budget for 2010.

"The proposed General Appropriations Act should propel the nation's economic take-off, and we cannot afford to jeopardize our hard-earned strides in the wake of the lingering economic risks," Nograles said.

The House Committee on Appropriations chaired by Rep. Junie Cua (Lone Dist., Quirino) has begun its open public hearings Wednesday morning, starting with the macro level presentations by the Development Budget Coordinating Committee (DBCC) composed of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), the Department of Finance (DoF)and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

"We should first assess where we are, what our options are and what directions we must trek," chairman Cua said as he revealed the subsequent schedules of the line agencies for the succeeding public hearings next week.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, through Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya, Jr., said the proposed national outlay is the "final budget of my administration," and that the 2010 GAA looks beyond 2010, "so that future generations can build on what this administration is leaving as legacy."

"We will look into the President's legacy budget with objectivity," Nograles said.

Scheduled to appear before the Cua panel today were Sec. Andaya (DBM), Sec. Augusto B. Santos (NEDA), Sec. Margarito Teves (Finance), and Bangko Sentral Gov. Amando M. Tetangco, Jr.

Andaya earlier noted that the proposed GAA has its bias for public services delivery with almost one third of the P1.541-trillion or P479.9-billion is earmarked for social services.

The 2010 budget also contains the P10.6-billion budget to fund the operations of the Comelec and cover the expenses for the coming 2010 elections.

Of the 2010 social services funds, P235-billion will fund education and manpower development, including DepEd's share of P172.8-billion, and P101-billion for social security and welfare programs, of which P10-billion will be in direct cash transfer to 700.000 poor families.

The DBM said the GAA is anchored on a population of 94.01 million (2010), from 92.23 million this year. The population increase, Sec. Andaya said, requires proportionate increases in school buildings, police personnel, and other social and health services, among other programs.

"I also urged my colleagues to attend the budget hearings and express their concerns to help fine tune the various national programs. There must be synchronicity between local and national programs to attain maximum results that are more meaningful to the poor masses," Nograles said. (Gil Bugaoisan)

'Basilan Beloved' By Tranquilino Gregorio - Extended Version Spanish/English - Mindanao Examiner Productions

'Basilan Beloved' By Tranquilino Gregorio - Extended Version Spanish/English - Mindanao Examiner Productions

Progressive Groups Launch 'We Object' Movement in South RP

A photo exhibit at the Terazza Milesa building at Anda Street in Davao City in Mindanao shows the increasing number of victims of political killings in the southern Philippines. The exhibit opens during the launching Wednesday, September 2, 2009 of 'We Object’ movement by progressive groups following the released this year of an alleged military's order of battle linking civilians, lawyers, church workers and a journalist to communist rebels. (Davao Today / Barry Ohaylan)

Mindanao Examiner TV Week In Review August 23-29, 2009

Mindanao Examiner TV Week In Review August 23-29, 2009

Part 1



Part 2

Digos' Bamboo Vendors

Bamboo vendors from the southern Filipino city of Digos prepare to sail for 9 hours to sell the poles, usually used by fishermen as outriggers and antenna poles for their boats. Each pole sells for P60. (Mindanao Examiner Photo / Geo Solmerano)

Two men shot dead outside church in Mindanao city of Kidapawan

KIDAPAWAN CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / September 1, 2009) – Two unidentified gunmen shot dead two men in a broad daylight attack Tuesday outside a Catholic church in the southern Filipino city of Kidapawan, police said.

Police said Paul Escueta, 20, and Johnny Kumaladang, 28, were shot several times at close range. Both men died before reaching the hospital.

The gunmen shot the duo at around 10 a.m. as they were about to enter the Cathedral gymnasium to play basketball with friends. The assailants fled on a motorcycle after the shooting.

Police said Escueta was facing criminal charges in a local court for illegal possession of firearms and carnapping. It was unknown whether the attack was connected to the cases.

No individuals claimed responsibility for the attack. (Geo Solmerano)

Davao City Gets Additional P20-M Infra Funding From House Speaker

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – House Speaker Prospero Nograles has released an additional P20-million in fresh funding for various infrastructure projects in Davao City in Mindanao.

Lawyer Karlo Nograles, son and chief of staff of the solon, said most of the funding will go to the completion of ongoing construction and repair and rehabilitation of multipurpose buildings in villages in the city’s first congressional district.

Among the villages are Barangays 76-A (Ecoland), Gulfview Subdivision in Bago Aplaya, Lanzona Subdivision in Matina Aplaya, Southville Maa, Barangay 21 and Wellspring in Catalunan Grande.

Other villages also included in the repair and rehabilitation of their multipurpose buildings are Sanggilangan in Barangay Maa, Saloruha in Barangay Talomo and Central Park.

Part of the additional fund will also be used for the construction of new multipurpose buildings in Alpha Homes in Barangay Matina Aplaya and at the Duterte National High School in Barangay Talomo, as well as for the construction of new multipurpose pavements in Elenita Heights in Barangay 39-D, Barangay 11-B and Barangay 2-A.

”These projects have long been promised to the residents of these barangays, the House Speaker is merely making good on his promises,” the young Nograles said.

For this year alone, the Speaker has allocated some P600-million for roadwork and infrastructure through his Oplan Kalsada Infrastructure Development Program.

Boat maker at work in Digos City

A Filipino boat maker puts braces on his unfinished boat as his wife and children look on at a coastal village in Digos City in the southern Philippines. (Mindanao Examiner Photo / Geo Solmerano)

Iglesia Ni Cristo Leader Dies

MANILA, Philippines - Eraño "Ka Erdy" Manalo, the executive minister of the largest religious sect in the country, Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), died Monday. He was 84.

Bienvenido Santiago, INC spokesman, said Manalo passed away at 3:53 p.m. in his home in San Juan. His body lies in state at the INC's central temple in Tandang Sora, Quezon City.

Santiago said that according to Manalo’s doctor, Rey Melchor Santos, the INC head died of cardio-pulmonary arrest.

Manalo has also reportedly been suffering from prostate cancer.

Manalo took the over adminstration of the religious organization after the death of his father, Felix Manalo, in April 12, 1963.

He was instrumental in the expansion of the church, which has millions of members nationwide and across the globe. (ABS-CBN)


Link: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/09/01/09/inc-leader-dies

Philippine Army says no soldiers killed in Davao clash

DAVAO CITY, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / September 1, 2009) – The Philippine Army on Tuesday denied reports by communist rebels that four soldiers were killed in an ambush in Davao City in Mindanao.

Leoncio Pitao, leader of the New People’s Army 1st Pulang Bagani Company, said four government soldiers were killed and six more wounded in the rebel attack on Sunday in the village of Dalagdag in Calinan district.

But the Army’s 10th Infantry Division said the fighting only wounded three soldiers and left a still undetermined number of rebels dead or wounded.

“We have no soldiers killed in the clash, but three are wounded in the fighting. We also inflicted casualties on the group of dissident-terrorist leader Leoncio Pitao,” Captain Rosa Maria Cristina Manuel, an army spokeswoman, told the Mindanao Examiner.

“In their haste to disengage with the more superior government troops, the rebels left behind their personal belongings, food items and other supplies as they fled towards northeast direction,” she said.

Pitao said rebel forces also seized a machine gun from the soldiers belonging to the Army’s 69th Infantry Battalion. This was also denied by Manuel.

“This recent NPA military offensive against the newly augmented 69th Infantry Battalion and the 10th Infantry Division fascists is a punitive action for the serious violations to human rights and international humanitarian law perpetrated by the Armed Forces of the Philippines against civilians in Davao hinterlands and provinces in Southern Mindanao,” said Pitao, who heads the NPA’s 1st Pulang Bagani Company.

He said the NPA continues to inflict heavy casualties on the military, despite the massive deployment of troops and militarization in the provinces.

“That the 10th Infantry Division-Armed Forces of the Philippines troops suffered heavy blows versus the people's army, despite the increasing number of its soldiers, nakedly shows the failure of the counter-revolutionary Oplan Bantay Laya II. It has utterly failed to stem the tide of the growing revolutionary movement in the face of intensive and extensive NPA tactical offensives in the region and elsewhere in the country,” Pitao said in a statement sent to the Mindanao Examiner.

Manuel said the locals are supporting the military operations against the NPA. “Sooner or later, Pitao will be captured and he shall pay for all his crimes against the people. They should surrender peacefully,” she said.

The NPA is the armed wing of the outlawed Communist Party of the Philippines which has been waging a secessionist war the past four decades for the establishment of a Maoist state in the country. Peace talks collapsed in 2004 after rebel leaders accused the Arroyo government of reneging on a deal, among others, that will free political detainees and stop extrajudicial killings of activists in the country. (Mindanao Examiner)