PROVINCIAL CAPITOL, MISAMIS ORIENTAL - (MIKE BAÑOS / July 10) - Misamis Oriental Gov. Oscar S. Moreno revealed in his 2nd State of the Province Address (SOPA) delivered yesterday before a special session of the Misamis Oriental Provincial Board that the province will be pursuing a different tack from the national government in its bid to address the communist insurgency.
"The national government has to adopt a policy it can implement to demonstrate its resolve and decisiveness to address the insurgency once and for all," Moreno said. "Being the national government, it has to implement a policy that is applicable in all areas."
"But here in Misamis Oriental we are adopting a strategy which we hope will prove better and that is to bring government closer to the people," Moreno stressed.
Moreno cited the "threshold case" of Sitio Lantad in Bgy. Kibanban in his hometown of Balingasag, Misamis Oriental as a showcase of how teamwork between various agencies of government and a resolute commitment to bring peace and prosperity to the people has successfully converted the former enclave and regional headquarters of the New People's Army (NPA) into a growing, vibrant community of forward looking and optimistic residents.
"It is easier to make war than peace," Moreno told media at a press conference following his 2 nd SOPA. "I hope we will exert every effort to achieve peace that is lasting, fulfilling and satisfying."
He also thanked Maj. General Cardozo Luna, 4th Infantry Diamond Division commanding general and the highest ranked military officer in the region, "for giving us the lead in local strategy and acknowledging the constitutional guarantee that civilian authority at all times remains supreme."
Moreno said the provincial government would be fighting a different kind of war. "It's a war to win the hearts of the people."
Two years ago, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo also pushed for peace talks at the local level, ordering the implementation of the terms of a peace pact with a splinter rebel faction, the Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade. However, the peace process with the RPA-ABB and another splinter group in Northern Mindanao, the Rebolusyonarying Patrido ng Mamamayang Pilipino (RPMM) have continued.
National Democratic Front (political arm of the Communist Party of the Philippines) negotiating panel chairman Luis Jalandoni called for renewed peace talks July 5 after President Arroyo's declaration of an all-out war against the NPA last week. Arroyo released P1 billion war chest to finance the renewed campaign against the NPA.
The NDF, the political arm of the communist insurgents which groups the CPP and its armed wing, the New People's Army, and 13 other underground organizations, pulled out of the peace talks in August 2004.
"In repudiation of the regime's all-out war policy and the extra-judicial killings and involuntary disappearances of political and leftist activists, we call for the resumption of formal peace talks between the GRP and the NDF as soon as possible," Jalandoni said.
mike_banos_2000@yahoo.com
alternate email : mike_banos@walla.com
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
KBP to Advincula: File plaint vs. Ocon
THE Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas (KBP) called on Councilor Reynaldo Advincula to file a formal complaint against opposition councilor cum radio commentator Zaldy Ocon.
Jonas Bustamante, KBP chairperson for Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental, said his group would look into Advincula’s complaint against Ocon only if he (Advincula) makes it official.
Advincula has accused Ocon of using his public affairs program at Radio Mindanao Network’s DxCC station to advance his political interests at the expense other city hall officials. He said Ocon cannot be a credible broadcaster because of his being a politician.
Advincula also appealed to KBP to punish Ocon for his alleged violations.
But Bustamante said Advincula should specify the issues he has against Ocon and file a formal complaint.
If Advincula files the complaint, he said he would forward it to the local KBP’s grievance committee chaired by veteran broadcaster Frank Mendez. He assured that KBP would act on any complaint against the councilor-broadcaster.
"We don’t tolerate our members who have conflicts of interest,’’ Bustamante said. But he said if a complaint is filed, Ocon would be given the opportunity to defend himself.
Bustamante said Ocon can be subjected to disciplinary actions if proven that he violated the KBP’s code for broadcasting.
"Truth won’t come out if there are conflicts of interest,’’ said Bustamante, adding a broadcaster cannot serve two masters at a time.
"That can be read at Gold Star Daily"
Jonas Bustamante, KBP chairperson for Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental, said his group would look into Advincula’s complaint against Ocon only if he (Advincula) makes it official.
Advincula has accused Ocon of using his public affairs program at Radio Mindanao Network’s DxCC station to advance his political interests at the expense other city hall officials. He said Ocon cannot be a credible broadcaster because of his being a politician.
Advincula also appealed to KBP to punish Ocon for his alleged violations.
But Bustamante said Advincula should specify the issues he has against Ocon and file a formal complaint.
If Advincula files the complaint, he said he would forward it to the local KBP’s grievance committee chaired by veteran broadcaster Frank Mendez. He assured that KBP would act on any complaint against the councilor-broadcaster.
"We don’t tolerate our members who have conflicts of interest,’’ Bustamante said. But he said if a complaint is filed, Ocon would be given the opportunity to defend himself.
Bustamante said Ocon can be subjected to disciplinary actions if proven that he violated the KBP’s code for broadcasting.
"Truth won’t come out if there are conflicts of interest,’’ said Bustamante, adding a broadcaster cannot serve two masters at a time.
"That can be read at Gold Star Daily"
Maguindanao's bloody clashes traumatize villagers
SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanaop (JOHN UNSON / July 9) - In armed conflicts, poor people become poorer and their hearts are scarred with wounds so difficult to heal.
More than 4,000 people are now languishing in evacuation sites in Maguindanao’s neighboring Shariff Aguak, Mamasapano and Datu Unsay towns, nowhere to return to since their houses have been razed in the violent skirmishes between Moro Islamic Liberation Front and local militia units.
The hostilities, sparked by the June 23 roadside bombing here which let seven people dead and nearly killed Maguindanao Gov. Datu Andal Ampatuan, also left many farming communities without power due to the destruction of P10.8 million worth of solar electrification facilities built by a non-government organization using foreign grants.
Ramon Santos, chairman of the government’s Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities, and his counterpart in the MILF, Von Al-Haq, the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team, and the Department of Social Welfare in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, are now initiating extensive relief missions in the affected towns.
The ARMM’s social welfare secretary, Ruby Sahali-Tan, said with the help of the International Committee of the Red Cross, more than three-fourths of the 4,134 families have been provided with relief supplies.
“The evacuees still refuse to return to their communities. They are so traumatized and are so afraid of a repeat of the hostilities,” Sahali-Tan said.
ARMM Gov. Datu Zaldy Ampatuan, chairman of the regional peace and order council, said there is a need to deploy enough soldiers, as “peacekeepers” in the five war-devastated villages.
Presidential Assistant for Mindanao Jesus Dureza, who has ministerial control over the government’s ceasefire committee, said the conflict here has scarred the hearts of the protagonists --- the rebels and the militia forces --- and the innocent civilians trapped in the crossfire.
“It is easy to rebuild houses, facets of government service, roads, but difficult to heal the wounds in the hearts of all the people affected by the conflict,” Dureza said. (JOHN UNSON)
john felix unson wrote:
More than 4,000 people are now languishing in evacuation sites in Maguindanao’s neighboring Shariff Aguak, Mamasapano and Datu Unsay towns, nowhere to return to since their houses have been razed in the violent skirmishes between Moro Islamic Liberation Front and local militia units.
The hostilities, sparked by the June 23 roadside bombing here which let seven people dead and nearly killed Maguindanao Gov. Datu Andal Ampatuan, also left many farming communities without power due to the destruction of P10.8 million worth of solar electrification facilities built by a non-government organization using foreign grants.
Ramon Santos, chairman of the government’s Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities, and his counterpart in the MILF, Von Al-Haq, the Malaysian-led International Monitoring Team, and the Department of Social Welfare in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, are now initiating extensive relief missions in the affected towns.
The ARMM’s social welfare secretary, Ruby Sahali-Tan, said with the help of the International Committee of the Red Cross, more than three-fourths of the 4,134 families have been provided with relief supplies.
“The evacuees still refuse to return to their communities. They are so traumatized and are so afraid of a repeat of the hostilities,” Sahali-Tan said.
ARMM Gov. Datu Zaldy Ampatuan, chairman of the regional peace and order council, said there is a need to deploy enough soldiers, as “peacekeepers” in the five war-devastated villages.
Presidential Assistant for Mindanao Jesus Dureza, who has ministerial control over the government’s ceasefire committee, said the conflict here has scarred the hearts of the protagonists --- the rebels and the militia forces --- and the innocent civilians trapped in the crossfire.
“It is easy to rebuild houses, facets of government service, roads, but difficult to heal the wounds in the hearts of all the people affected by the conflict,” Dureza said. (JOHN UNSON)
john felix unson
Mission Impossible Accomplished: Government Restored to Lantad, Misamis Oriental
SITIO LANTAD, BGY. KIBANBAN, BALINGASAG, MISAMIS ORIENTAL – (MIKE BAÑOS / July 10) - Nineteen years after reaching its nadir as the center of the communist insurgency in Northern Mindanao, government was officially restored to this enclave with the re-opening of the Kibanban-Lantad provincial road Saturday, July 8, 2006.
Spearheaded by Misamis Oriental Gov. Oscar Moreno, the inter-agency government task force returned in triumph aboard a 16-vehicle convoy to link up with elements of the Philippine Army's 8 th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Andrelino Colina which has earlier secured the sitio from the New People's Army latest effort to wrest it back.
"When I arrived here this morning, I shed tears of joy at the realization we have fulfilled our promise to you, and together we have accomplished what everybody said was impossible," an emotional but jubilant Moreno told a crowd of around 500 residents and visitors at simple rites to turn over a brand new multi purpose dryer and P30,000 worth of livelihood assistance to barangay officials led by Kibanban Bgy. Chairperson Adelina Santua.
The sitio was earlier identified by the Moreno administration as a high-profile target for development. "We focused on bringing government back to Lantad because it was the symbol of past neglect, the province's wealth in agriculture, especially abaca, and not the least, Lantad's role in history as the symbol of the communist insurgency," the governor told the Star.
In 1987, the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army set up a shadow government in Lantad headed by "Mayor" Conrado Castillo. It became the NPA's Front Committee 4B, North Central Mindanao Command's guerrilla base which supplied logistics to communist guerillas in present day Northern Mindanao and the Caraga Region. All former government services were taken over by the rebels including health and education. A cooperative store was even set up to ostensibly serve the residents but in reality served as the logistics center for arms, ammunition and supplies for the rebels.
"We had up to 200 guerrillas training here in 1990," recalls Bgy. Kibanban Kagawad Bruno Lindahay, himself a former NPA guerrilla. "Our comrades would come down every week to buy around P30,000 worth of food and supplies from our cooperative store."
Lindahay, like 95 percent of Lantad's 400 residents, is a Higa-onon. The NPA used their native bushcraft and knowledge of the local terrain to effectively isolate Lantad from the rest of the province using indigenous booby traps such as the abo-abo, batik and gahong. They also used land mines making the enclave impregnable from military and police forces who had no recourse but to bomb and strafe the area from the air using MG-520 helicopter gunships, and the prop-driven T-33 "Tora-Tora" COIN aircraft and OV-10 Broncos.
The CPP-NPA functioned as the de facto government in Lantad from 1987-1990 and control of the area see-sawed back and forth between the NPA guerrillas and military troopers until late last year when the 8IB under Colina effectively wrenched control of the area from the insurgents.
Moreno, with Misamis Oriental Mayor's League Chairman and Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental Mayor Yevgeni Emano, first attempted to reach Lantad on foot during Holy Week in 2005. The Capitol team finally reached the enclave during the Lantad fiesta celebrating the feast of Sto. Niño in October 24-25, 2005 after which the decision was made to bring back government to the place through the restoration of the Kibanban-Lantad road.
During the team's latest visit previous early February 2006, , they had to trek the 11-kilometer stretch from Bgy. Kibanban's poblacion on foot and back due to inclement weather which turned the road into an impassable morass of mud.
"I promised you the next time I would come back, I would arrive here with no mud on my shoes," Moreno recalled. "I myself did not expect this would be realized so soon and I share this moment of victory of our commitment, unity and teamwork as members of the team which brought back government to Lantad."
Provincial Board Member James Caiña, chairman of the Misamis Oriental Infrastructure Committee, said he fielded practically the entire complement of the Provincial Engineer's Office under Engr. Roland Pacuribot to restore the 18-kilometer road from Kibanban to Lantad.
"I consider this project only 50 percent finished since we still have to upgrade it to provincial road standards of 6-8 meters from its present 4-5 meters," Caina, known as "Mr. Infrastructure" to his fellow board members and capitol department head said. "So far, we have spent some PhP1.5 million in fuel and other supplies, and quarried the gravel and sand we needed from the creeks below."
Although they have already fielded three dump trucks, a payloader, a road roller and a road grader in addition to the original bulldozer deployed earlier, Pacuribot admitted their work has often been delayed by the weather since it usually starts raining in the afternoon in Lantad, situated some 890 meters above sea level.
Already, Kibanban Bgy. Chair Adelina Santua said motorcycles for hire, know locally as habal-habal , have started plying the road since May. A one way trip from the national highway in Balingasag costs P150 and takes less than two hours, though residents have petitioned operators to bring it down to P70-100 since the road is constantly being improved. Previously, it took residents a three hour walk to reach the poblacion of Bgy. Kibanban, some 11 kms. away and the only means of transporting their farm produce was on horseback, which cost P120 and took 2-3 hours.
"Since the road was restored in May 2006, our people have been encouraged to plant more coffee, banana, abaca and corn," Lindahay said. "Our greatest need now is for electricity but we are hesitant to approach Gov. Moreno for this since he has already done so much for us and also needs to take care of other areas in the province."
Moreno concurs there's not time for resting on their laurels. "Caina's army is here in tandem with Colina's army," he said. "This is a teamwork I hope will be replicated in other areas of the province; a partnership that can become a showcase for others to follow. It is difficult to attain peace through peaceful means, but it is more rewarding."
As he addresses the capitol hierarchy Monday morning in his annual State of the Province Address, Moreno has a showcase that not only Misamis Oriental, but other similarly situated sitios and barangays all over the country can emulate as well.
Spearheaded by Misamis Oriental Gov. Oscar Moreno, the inter-agency government task force returned in triumph aboard a 16-vehicle convoy to link up with elements of the Philippine Army's 8 th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Andrelino Colina which has earlier secured the sitio from the New People's Army latest effort to wrest it back.
"When I arrived here this morning, I shed tears of joy at the realization we have fulfilled our promise to you, and together we have accomplished what everybody said was impossible," an emotional but jubilant Moreno told a crowd of around 500 residents and visitors at simple rites to turn over a brand new multi purpose dryer and P30,000 worth of livelihood assistance to barangay officials led by Kibanban Bgy. Chairperson Adelina Santua.
The sitio was earlier identified by the Moreno administration as a high-profile target for development. "We focused on bringing government back to Lantad because it was the symbol of past neglect, the province's wealth in agriculture, especially abaca, and not the least, Lantad's role in history as the symbol of the communist insurgency," the governor told the Star.
In 1987, the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army set up a shadow government in Lantad headed by "Mayor" Conrado Castillo. It became the NPA's Front Committee 4B, North Central Mindanao Command's guerrilla base which supplied logistics to communist guerillas in present day Northern Mindanao and the Caraga Region. All former government services were taken over by the rebels including health and education. A cooperative store was even set up to ostensibly serve the residents but in reality served as the logistics center for arms, ammunition and supplies for the rebels.
"We had up to 200 guerrillas training here in 1990," recalls Bgy. Kibanban Kagawad Bruno Lindahay, himself a former NPA guerrilla. "Our comrades would come down every week to buy around P30,000 worth of food and supplies from our cooperative store."
Lindahay, like 95 percent of Lantad's 400 residents, is a Higa-onon. The NPA used their native bushcraft and knowledge of the local terrain to effectively isolate Lantad from the rest of the province using indigenous booby traps such as the abo-abo, batik and gahong. They also used land mines making the enclave impregnable from military and police forces who had no recourse but to bomb and strafe the area from the air using MG-520 helicopter gunships, and the prop-driven T-33 "Tora-Tora" COIN aircraft and OV-10 Broncos.
The CPP-NPA functioned as the de facto government in Lantad from 1987-1990 and control of the area see-sawed back and forth between the NPA guerrillas and military troopers until late last year when the 8IB under Colina effectively wrenched control of the area from the insurgents.
Moreno, with Misamis Oriental Mayor's League Chairman and Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental Mayor Yevgeni Emano, first attempted to reach Lantad on foot during Holy Week in 2005. The Capitol team finally reached the enclave during the Lantad fiesta celebrating the feast of Sto. Niño in October 24-25, 2005 after which the decision was made to bring back government to the place through the restoration of the Kibanban-Lantad road.
During the team's latest visit previous early February 2006, , they had to trek the 11-kilometer stretch from Bgy. Kibanban's poblacion on foot and back due to inclement weather which turned the road into an impassable morass of mud.
"I promised you the next time I would come back, I would arrive here with no mud on my shoes," Moreno recalled. "I myself did not expect this would be realized so soon and I share this moment of victory of our commitment, unity and teamwork as members of the team which brought back government to Lantad."
Provincial Board Member James Caiña, chairman of the Misamis Oriental Infrastructure Committee, said he fielded practically the entire complement of the Provincial Engineer's Office under Engr. Roland Pacuribot to restore the 18-kilometer road from Kibanban to Lantad.
"I consider this project only 50 percent finished since we still have to upgrade it to provincial road standards of 6-8 meters from its present 4-5 meters," Caina, known as "Mr. Infrastructure" to his fellow board members and capitol department head said. "So far, we have spent some PhP1.5 million in fuel and other supplies, and quarried the gravel and sand we needed from the creeks below."
Although they have already fielded three dump trucks, a payloader, a road roller and a road grader in addition to the original bulldozer deployed earlier, Pacuribot admitted their work has often been delayed by the weather since it usually starts raining in the afternoon in Lantad, situated some 890 meters above sea level.
Already, Kibanban Bgy. Chair Adelina Santua said motorcycles for hire, know locally as habal-habal , have started plying the road since May. A one way trip from the national highway in Balingasag costs P150 and takes less than two hours, though residents have petitioned operators to bring it down to P70-100 since the road is constantly being improved. Previously, it took residents a three hour walk to reach the poblacion of Bgy. Kibanban, some 11 kms. away and the only means of transporting their farm produce was on horseback, which cost P120 and took 2-3 hours.
"Since the road was restored in May 2006, our people have been encouraged to plant more coffee, banana, abaca and corn," Lindahay said. "Our greatest need now is for electricity but we are hesitant to approach Gov. Moreno for this since he has already done so much for us and also needs to take care of other areas in the province."
Moreno concurs there's not time for resting on their laurels. "Caina's army is here in tandem with Colina's army," he said. "This is a teamwork I hope will be replicated in other areas of the province; a partnership that can become a showcase for others to follow. It is difficult to attain peace through peaceful means, but it is more rewarding."
As he addresses the capitol hierarchy Monday morning in his annual State of the Province Address, Moreno has a showcase that not only Misamis Oriental, but other similarly situated sitios and barangays all over the country can emulate as well.
Monday, July 10, 2006
Sunday, July 09, 2006
40 city hall workers to lose houses; Ocon faults Dongkoy
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY - (Cagayan de Oro Journal / July 8) - SOME 40 city hall employees would likely lose their houses for good due to the alleged failure of the local government to remit payments made for their loans to the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).
The houses would be auctioned off at the Hall of Justice on Aug. 10 after the GSIS subjected the properties to foreclosure.
Opposition Councilor Zaldy Ocon yesterday sought an investigation, saying he has reasons to believe that the legal proceedings were initiated by GSIS, the creditor, to repossess the properties because the employees’ loans were in default.
Ocon said he would raise the matter during the city council’s session next week.
Lino Daral, the city treasurer, said he also received a complaint from a group of employees. However, he denied it was city hall’s fault.
Daral said the foreclosed properties were that of city hall employees’ who opted to directly pay GSIS. He said their payments to GSIS were not automatically deducted by city hall.
"We (councilors) should look into this," said Ocon, adding that city hall officials responsible should be punished.
Ocon showed a letter from a group of city hall employees that complained about the failure of the local government to remit their payments to the GSIS. It blamed the foreclosure on city hall.
The group alleged that this has been going on for two years already.
Based on the complaint, Ocon said surcharges and penalties accumulated, and the debts of some employees reached to some P400 thousand each apparently as a result of the non-remittances.
Many of the foreclosed properties are in Canitoan, according to Ocon.
Ocon opted not to disclose the identities of the employees, saying they feared the mayor and his subordinates would get back at them for going public with their complaint.
Ocon said he would try to get evidence of the non-remittances including receipts and other related documents.
"Why is it that city hall is not remitting the payments to GSIS? How is this possible when the payments made by the employees for their loans were automatically deducted?’’ asked Ocon.
He said the unremitted payments could easily amount to millions of pesos.
A GSIS executive earlier confirmed to this paper that city hall has not been remitting contributions and payments for loans on time. The official said city hall was also into ‘‘underremittance’’––meaning, payments are not made in full.
Ocon has been accusing the Emano administration of corruption. Over DxCC where Ocon is a commentator, the opposition councilor has repeatedly demanded that Mayor Emano show the public a financial statement.
Ocon said he suspected city hall was having problems with its cash flow because of alleged corruption.
‘‘Our funds are drained out,’’ he said. ‘‘The GSIS is not at fault and neither is it the fault of the employees. It’s the fault of the Emano administration.’’
"that can be read at Gold Star Daily"
The houses would be auctioned off at the Hall of Justice on Aug. 10 after the GSIS subjected the properties to foreclosure.
Opposition Councilor Zaldy Ocon yesterday sought an investigation, saying he has reasons to believe that the legal proceedings were initiated by GSIS, the creditor, to repossess the properties because the employees’ loans were in default.
Ocon said he would raise the matter during the city council’s session next week.
Lino Daral, the city treasurer, said he also received a complaint from a group of employees. However, he denied it was city hall’s fault.
Daral said the foreclosed properties were that of city hall employees’ who opted to directly pay GSIS. He said their payments to GSIS were not automatically deducted by city hall.
"We (councilors) should look into this," said Ocon, adding that city hall officials responsible should be punished.
Ocon showed a letter from a group of city hall employees that complained about the failure of the local government to remit their payments to the GSIS. It blamed the foreclosure on city hall.
The group alleged that this has been going on for two years already.
Based on the complaint, Ocon said surcharges and penalties accumulated, and the debts of some employees reached to some P400 thousand each apparently as a result of the non-remittances.
Many of the foreclosed properties are in Canitoan, according to Ocon.
Ocon opted not to disclose the identities of the employees, saying they feared the mayor and his subordinates would get back at them for going public with their complaint.
Ocon said he would try to get evidence of the non-remittances including receipts and other related documents.
"Why is it that city hall is not remitting the payments to GSIS? How is this possible when the payments made by the employees for their loans were automatically deducted?’’ asked Ocon.
He said the unremitted payments could easily amount to millions of pesos.
A GSIS executive earlier confirmed to this paper that city hall has not been remitting contributions and payments for loans on time. The official said city hall was also into ‘‘underremittance’’––meaning, payments are not made in full.
Ocon has been accusing the Emano administration of corruption. Over DxCC where Ocon is a commentator, the opposition councilor has repeatedly demanded that Mayor Emano show the public a financial statement.
Ocon said he suspected city hall was having problems with its cash flow because of alleged corruption.
‘‘Our funds are drained out,’’ he said. ‘‘The GSIS is not at fault and neither is it the fault of the employees. It’s the fault of the Emano administration.’’
"that can be read at Gold Star Daily"
Saturday, July 08, 2006
Bagabuyo says Emano could end up behind bars for defying court
LAWYER Rogelio Bagabuyo on Tuesday warned that Mayor Vicente Emano could end up behind bars for allegedly defying a court order.
"I will bring this matter even if it reaches the Supreme Court because Emano no longer respects the court. If he can’t respect the court, how can he be expected to respect ordinary Cagayanons?" asked Bagabuyo.
Bagabuyo’s warning came even as the 17th branch of the Regional Trial Court here gave Emano and Bugo leader Nerio Obliosca 10 days to explain why they should not be held in contempt.
Judge Florenciana Abbu issued the order after Obliosca admitted that he continued to perform the duties of barangay chairperson despite a 20-day temporary restraining order issued by the court.
In a courtroom early this week, Obliosca said he was merely following Mayor Emano’s orders.
On June 16, Abbu ordered Obliosca to refrain from exercising the powers of a village chief in Barangay Bugo.
"He (Obliosca) admitted during cross exams. Despite his receipt of the TRO and advise by his counsel to obey it, still Obliosca defied the order," Bagabuyo said. "Defying a lawful order from the court is a criminal offense."
Bagabuyo said Obliosca and Emano violated Rule 17 of the Rules of Court.
Bagabuyo said Obliosca violated the order by attending a meeting for barangay chairpersons at Pearlmont Hotel. Obliosca maintained that it was Emano who ordered him to attend the meeting.
Obliosca said he also received an invitation from the ombudsman to attend the activity.
"Mayor Emano personally asked me to attend through a letter," Obliosca said.
The TRO was issued after lawyer Perseverando Araña staged a comeback last month. He was elected barangay chairperson but he submitted a resignation letter to Emano early this year, prompting the mayor to name Obliosca as his replacement. Arana said President Arroyo never accepted his resignation.
"That can be read at Gold Star Daily"
"I will bring this matter even if it reaches the Supreme Court because Emano no longer respects the court. If he can’t respect the court, how can he be expected to respect ordinary Cagayanons?" asked Bagabuyo.
Bagabuyo’s warning came even as the 17th branch of the Regional Trial Court here gave Emano and Bugo leader Nerio Obliosca 10 days to explain why they should not be held in contempt.
Judge Florenciana Abbu issued the order after Obliosca admitted that he continued to perform the duties of barangay chairperson despite a 20-day temporary restraining order issued by the court.
In a courtroom early this week, Obliosca said he was merely following Mayor Emano’s orders.
On June 16, Abbu ordered Obliosca to refrain from exercising the powers of a village chief in Barangay Bugo.
"He (Obliosca) admitted during cross exams. Despite his receipt of the TRO and advise by his counsel to obey it, still Obliosca defied the order," Bagabuyo said. "Defying a lawful order from the court is a criminal offense."
Bagabuyo said Obliosca and Emano violated Rule 17 of the Rules of Court.
Bagabuyo said Obliosca violated the order by attending a meeting for barangay chairpersons at Pearlmont Hotel. Obliosca maintained that it was Emano who ordered him to attend the meeting.
Obliosca said he also received an invitation from the ombudsman to attend the activity.
"Mayor Emano personally asked me to attend through a letter," Obliosca said.
The TRO was issued after lawyer Perseverando Araña staged a comeback last month. He was elected barangay chairperson but he submitted a resignation letter to Emano early this year, prompting the mayor to name Obliosca as his replacement. Arana said President Arroyo never accepted his resignation.
"That can be read at Gold Star Daily"
Sia: Nanding is lying
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (LITO RULONA and Cagayan de Oro Journal / July 7) - "HE lies.’’
Councilor Juan Sia said this in response to embattled Councilor Reynaldo Advincula who accused him of being ‘‘irresponsible.’’
Sia earlier divulged that it was Advincula’s committee that pushed for the approval of an ordinance that wiped off the debts of market vendors. Debts incurred by the Advinculas who are leasing stalls at city hall-owned Cogon market were among those written off when the city council approved the ordinance last April.
Councilor Sia, known to be mild-mannered, said, ‘‘He (Advincula) is not telling the truth. He lies."
Sia maintained that Advincula failed to show a list of the vendors and their corresponding debts despite demands from him (Sia) during meetings of the finance committee.
Sia, finance committee chair, said he was saddened over Advincula’s reaction. He said he merely told the truth about what really happened.
"Kinsa namakak namo karon? The record will show that he (Advincula) agreed to furnish my committee a list of vendors in its next meeting," said Sia.
This, he said, never happened. Instead, Sia said, he was surprised because the then proposal reached the plenary.
Sia said the then proposed ordinance was certified as ‘‘urgent.’’
"God knows what’s really happening around here. Mao na lang ako nahibaw-an naka-pasar na og ordinance," said Sia.
At the city council last Monday, Sia said Advincula approached and greeted him. But he said he told Advincula: "Walang personalan. The record shows it all."
Hearing this, Sia said Advincula avoided a confrontation and went outside the session hall.
Excerpts from the minutes of the Dec. 6, 2005 meeting of the finance committee shows that Sia demanded a list of vendors. Motion no. 262-2005 also shows that he asked the City Economic Enterprise Department (CEED) to submit to the committee a list of delinquent stall holders with the corresponding debts.
Advincula during an earlier interview admitted that he had owed city hall nearly P10 thousand, but he said his debts were written off with the passage of Ordinance no. 10127-2006.
The stall awared to him is now registered under the name of his son Reynaldo Jr.
Advincula was the chair of the market committee at the time of the passage of the ordinance.
Meanwhile, Councilor Edgar Cabanlas lashed at former mayor Manolo Tagarda Sr. for allegedly engaging in "dirty politics" when he threatened to bring Advincula to the ombudsman for his alleged conflicts of interest.
On Tuesday, Tagarda filed disbarment case against Cabanlas and three other lawyers of Mayor Vicente Emano for allegedly lying in court in regard to city hall’s memorandum of agreement with UKC Builders, the redeveloper of Cogon market.
Advincula also lashed at Tagarda and challenged his former political ally to file the case as soon as possible.
Tagarda is "talking a lot in front of the media," said Advincula. ‘‘File it immediately.’’
He said he suspected Tagarda was only bluffing.
After filing the disbarment case against Cabanlas and the other lawyers, Tagarda said Advincula would be next.
"I am still completing some documents to prove his (Advincula’s) wrongdoings," Tagarda said in an interview over DxCC.
Advincula replied: "I am hoping that he (Tagarda) would be able prove in court that my actions as a public official and my business interests constitute violations."
Advincula said he welcomes a case against him in court so he could prove his innocence.
He said Tagarda was only making noise because he wants to stage a politcal comeback.
Cabanlas laughed off Tagarda’s accusations, saying the former councilor and mayor was just "forgetful due to old age."
"Gibungaw na tingali kana si Atty. Tagarda, walay lingaw," said Cabanlas.
">Link
Councilor Juan Sia said this in response to embattled Councilor Reynaldo Advincula who accused him of being ‘‘irresponsible.’’
Sia earlier divulged that it was Advincula’s committee that pushed for the approval of an ordinance that wiped off the debts of market vendors. Debts incurred by the Advinculas who are leasing stalls at city hall-owned Cogon market were among those written off when the city council approved the ordinance last April.
Councilor Sia, known to be mild-mannered, said, ‘‘He (Advincula) is not telling the truth. He lies."
Sia maintained that Advincula failed to show a list of the vendors and their corresponding debts despite demands from him (Sia) during meetings of the finance committee.
Sia, finance committee chair, said he was saddened over Advincula’s reaction. He said he merely told the truth about what really happened.
"Kinsa namakak namo karon? The record will show that he (Advincula) agreed to furnish my committee a list of vendors in its next meeting," said Sia.
This, he said, never happened. Instead, Sia said, he was surprised because the then proposal reached the plenary.
Sia said the then proposed ordinance was certified as ‘‘urgent.’’
"God knows what’s really happening around here. Mao na lang ako nahibaw-an naka-pasar na og ordinance," said Sia.
At the city council last Monday, Sia said Advincula approached and greeted him. But he said he told Advincula: "Walang personalan. The record shows it all."
Hearing this, Sia said Advincula avoided a confrontation and went outside the session hall.
Excerpts from the minutes of the Dec. 6, 2005 meeting of the finance committee shows that Sia demanded a list of vendors. Motion no. 262-2005 also shows that he asked the City Economic Enterprise Department (CEED) to submit to the committee a list of delinquent stall holders with the corresponding debts.
Advincula during an earlier interview admitted that he had owed city hall nearly P10 thousand, but he said his debts were written off with the passage of Ordinance no. 10127-2006.
The stall awared to him is now registered under the name of his son Reynaldo Jr.
Advincula was the chair of the market committee at the time of the passage of the ordinance.
Meanwhile, Councilor Edgar Cabanlas lashed at former mayor Manolo Tagarda Sr. for allegedly engaging in "dirty politics" when he threatened to bring Advincula to the ombudsman for his alleged conflicts of interest.
On Tuesday, Tagarda filed disbarment case against Cabanlas and three other lawyers of Mayor Vicente Emano for allegedly lying in court in regard to city hall’s memorandum of agreement with UKC Builders, the redeveloper of Cogon market.
Advincula also lashed at Tagarda and challenged his former political ally to file the case as soon as possible.
Tagarda is "talking a lot in front of the media," said Advincula. ‘‘File it immediately.’’
He said he suspected Tagarda was only bluffing.
After filing the disbarment case against Cabanlas and the other lawyers, Tagarda said Advincula would be next.
"I am still completing some documents to prove his (Advincula’s) wrongdoings," Tagarda said in an interview over DxCC.
Advincula replied: "I am hoping that he (Tagarda) would be able prove in court that my actions as a public official and my business interests constitute violations."
Advincula said he welcomes a case against him in court so he could prove his innocence.
He said Tagarda was only making noise because he wants to stage a politcal comeback.
Cabanlas laughed off Tagarda’s accusations, saying the former councilor and mayor was just "forgetful due to old age."
"Gibungaw na tingali kana si Atty. Tagarda, walay lingaw," said Cabanlas.
">Link
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Ocon says Emano, council keeping Oro in the dark on P300-m deal with UKC
OPPOSITION Councilor Zaldy Ocon sharply criticized the PaDayon Pilipino-dominated city council and Mayor Vicente Emano for allegedly keeping Cagaya-nons in the dark in regard to its new multimillion-peso deals with the construction firm UKC Builders.
"The contracts have not been shown to the public until now," said Ocon.
The undertaking, a bridge and road project, according to Ocon, would cost the city some P332 million. The bridge would be built near the St. Augustine Cathedral and would link Carmen and Nazareth.
Ocon also questioned two ordinances that authorized revisions in an agreement between city hall and UKC Builders Inc. He said the contract was revised despite his and Councilor Alvin Calingin’s objections.
Ocon said councilors closely identified with Emano approved the ordinances despite the mayor’s failure to show copies of the contracts for the ‘‘5th Bridge’’ and ‘‘access road’’ project.
One of the ordinances (Ordinance Number 225-2006) set aside P8,033,093.39 to pay residents whose properties would be affected by the road project. The road project implementation received a city council green light through Ordinance no. 10150-2006.
He said city hall has already set aside P141 million for the road project.
‘‘How come there is an additional P8,033,093.39?" asked Ocon.
Ocon said the agreement with UKC is "defective" and ‘‘is full of legal infirmities."
Ocon questioned the road project, saying spending over P140 million was too much.
‘‘How many kilometers? Where would it start and where would it end?" he asked.
He accused PaDayon Pilipino councilors of approving the ordinances on orders of Emano.
"I wonder why they’re hiding the contract and why they can’t give us the specifications," Ocon said. "They approved the contracts without any plan, without public bidding and until, they haven’t shown the original contracts that were supposedly revised."
"that can be read at Gold Star Daily"
"The contracts have not been shown to the public until now," said Ocon.
The undertaking, a bridge and road project, according to Ocon, would cost the city some P332 million. The bridge would be built near the St. Augustine Cathedral and would link Carmen and Nazareth.
Ocon also questioned two ordinances that authorized revisions in an agreement between city hall and UKC Builders Inc. He said the contract was revised despite his and Councilor Alvin Calingin’s objections.
Ocon said councilors closely identified with Emano approved the ordinances despite the mayor’s failure to show copies of the contracts for the ‘‘5th Bridge’’ and ‘‘access road’’ project.
One of the ordinances (Ordinance Number 225-2006) set aside P8,033,093.39 to pay residents whose properties would be affected by the road project. The road project implementation received a city council green light through Ordinance no. 10150-2006.
He said city hall has already set aside P141 million for the road project.
‘‘How come there is an additional P8,033,093.39?" asked Ocon.
Ocon said the agreement with UKC is "defective" and ‘‘is full of legal infirmities."
Ocon questioned the road project, saying spending over P140 million was too much.
‘‘How many kilometers? Where would it start and where would it end?" he asked.
He accused PaDayon Pilipino councilors of approving the ordinances on orders of Emano.
"I wonder why they’re hiding the contract and why they can’t give us the specifications," Ocon said. "They approved the contracts without any plan, without public bidding and until, they haven’t shown the original contracts that were supposedly revised."
"that can be read at Gold Star Daily"
Sunday, July 02, 2006
Friday, June 30, 2006
MISORTEL Strikes Back
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MIKE BAÑOS / June 29) – In a strong bid to stop the further erosion of its subscriber base and give its competitors a taste of their own medicine, the Misamis Oriental Telephone System, Inc. (MISORTEL) is bringing in affordable high-speed data services to its furthest service areas.
Misamis Oriental Governor and MISORTEL President Oscar S. Moreno signed a Memorandum of Agreement with DCTech Micro Services, Inc. that will make 24/7 internet services available to new subscribers.
Engr. Ryan Sumalinog, DC Tech Vice President for Operations, who signed in behalf of the firm, said the new value added service called MISORNET will feature a two-tiered service structure: its Unlimited Dial-Up service will deliver 24/7 internet services at a minimum speed of 52 kbps (vs. 38 kbps. tops for competitors) for only P399 a month while its DSL service guarantees a spped of 384 kbps for only P799 a month, but will enable the user to access the internet and use his voice phone at the same time.
Sumalinog said the 24/7 Unlimited Dial-Up Service is ideal for home/personal use while the DSL service would best serve the needs of msall and medium enterprises.
DC Tech is a full complement service provider based in Davao City which is now providing similar value-added services in partnership with Globe-Telecoms to local exchange carriers (LECs) of the Telecommunications Office in Cagayan de Oro, Iligan; Maramag, Malaybalay and Valencia cities in Bukidnon; Cotabato, Pikit, Kabakan, Matalam, Panabo, Tagum and Mati.
Marriz Manuel B. Agbon, DCTech Sales and Marketing Partner in Northern Mindanao, said the move would provide local businessmen the impetus to invest in ICT.
"With additional investments in ICT, enhanced executive reporting follows, leading to significant cost reductions, revenue growth and increased profitability as a result of improved work efficiency brought by reduced data losses and integrated systems of operations," Agbon said.
Moreno is optimistic the venture would further push MISORTEL's mission to provide modern, adequate, efficient, reliable and affordable telecommunications specially to areas currently unserved and underserved by the company, which is majority owned by the Misamis Oriental provincial government.
"The provision of Voice and Internet applications in remote areas has become a necessity," Moreno said. "In order for us to keep up with other developing nations, our citizens must be aware and knowledgeable to successfully compete in the global market. This is where MISORTEL's partnership with DCTech plays a vital role.
Industry sources estimate internet users in the Philippines would grow to 20 million by next year and to 41 million by 2014.
"The business sector, being an engine of growth, is also a priority of this venture," Moreno said. "For our economy to be globally competitive, Filipino businessmen, especially those engaged in agri-business, must also be at par technology wise with their global competitors."
Sumalinog said the new venture would also bring in new subscribers to MISORTEL which has seen its former dominance in Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental diminish with the inroads made on new and existing subscribers by cellphone service providers.
"Since we shall do the installation, maintenance and collection from MISORTEL, they will gain a steady revenue stream at little or no expense to their present network," he said.
Already, Sumalinog said DCTech provides its value added services to some 60 percent of the internet cafes in Cagayan de Oro City, offering 1mpbs package for only P8,000 and their 768 kbps for only P4,000. He said they have also successfully increased the total subscriber base of all the Telof LECs they are now serving by 15 percent after only four months of operations.
"We hope we will be able to do the same, or even better, for MISORTEL," he added.
" mike_banos_2000@yahoo.com>Link
Misamis Oriental Governor and MISORTEL President Oscar S. Moreno signed a Memorandum of Agreement with DCTech Micro Services, Inc. that will make 24/7 internet services available to new subscribers.
Engr. Ryan Sumalinog, DC Tech Vice President for Operations, who signed in behalf of the firm, said the new value added service called MISORNET will feature a two-tiered service structure: its Unlimited Dial-Up service will deliver 24/7 internet services at a minimum speed of 52 kbps (vs. 38 kbps. tops for competitors) for only P399 a month while its DSL service guarantees a spped of 384 kbps for only P799 a month, but will enable the user to access the internet and use his voice phone at the same time.
Sumalinog said the 24/7 Unlimited Dial-Up Service is ideal for home/personal use while the DSL service would best serve the needs of msall and medium enterprises.
DC Tech is a full complement service provider based in Davao City which is now providing similar value-added services in partnership with Globe-Telecoms to local exchange carriers (LECs) of the Telecommunications Office in Cagayan de Oro, Iligan; Maramag, Malaybalay and Valencia cities in Bukidnon; Cotabato, Pikit, Kabakan, Matalam, Panabo, Tagum and Mati.
Marriz Manuel B. Agbon, DCTech Sales and Marketing Partner in Northern Mindanao, said the move would provide local businessmen the impetus to invest in ICT.
"With additional investments in ICT, enhanced executive reporting follows, leading to significant cost reductions, revenue growth and increased profitability as a result of improved work efficiency brought by reduced data losses and integrated systems of operations," Agbon said.
Moreno is optimistic the venture would further push MISORTEL's mission to provide modern, adequate, efficient, reliable and affordable telecommunications specially to areas currently unserved and underserved by the company, which is majority owned by the Misamis Oriental provincial government.
"The provision of Voice and Internet applications in remote areas has become a necessity," Moreno said. "In order for us to keep up with other developing nations, our citizens must be aware and knowledgeable to successfully compete in the global market. This is where MISORTEL's partnership with DCTech plays a vital role.
Industry sources estimate internet users in the Philippines would grow to 20 million by next year and to 41 million by 2014.
"The business sector, being an engine of growth, is also a priority of this venture," Moreno said. "For our economy to be globally competitive, Filipino businessmen, especially those engaged in agri-business, must also be at par technology wise with their global competitors."
Sumalinog said the new venture would also bring in new subscribers to MISORTEL which has seen its former dominance in Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental diminish with the inroads made on new and existing subscribers by cellphone service providers.
"Since we shall do the installation, maintenance and collection from MISORTEL, they will gain a steady revenue stream at little or no expense to their present network," he said.
Already, Sumalinog said DCTech provides its value added services to some 60 percent of the internet cafes in Cagayan de Oro City, offering 1mpbs package for only P8,000 and their 768 kbps for only P4,000. He said they have also successfully increased the total subscriber base of all the Telof LECs they are now serving by 15 percent after only four months of operations.
"We hope we will be able to do the same, or even better, for MISORTEL," he added.
" mike_banos_2000@yahoo.com>Link
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Advincula hits Sia, calls partymate irresponsible
COUNCILOR Reynaldo Advincula strongly denied he pushed for the approval of an ordinance that wrote off the debts of market stallholders, including his, as he called his partymate Councilor Juan Sia ‘‘irresponsible’’ for making such a claim.
Advincula and Sia are members of the ruling PaDayon Pilipino, the party of Mayor Vicente Emano.
Earlier this week, Sia said the market committee chaired by Advincula was responsible in railroading the approval of the ordinance. He said the then proposal was elevated to the city council even before Advincula could present the list of beneficiaries and their corresponding debts to city hall to the finance committee.
The amount of debts written off remains unclear. The ordinance did not state any amount nor did it identify the beneficiaries. But Advincula hinted in an earlier interview that the vendors’ debts had reached nearly P10 million.
But Advincula maintained that the ordinance was not endorsed by his committee.
"That (ordinance) did not come from my committee. How then can anyone say that I worked or pushed for the passage of that ordinance?" Advincula asked.
"That (ordinance) did not come from my committee. How then can anyone say that I worked or pushed for the passage of that ordinance?" Advincula asked.
Advincula lashed at Sia, saying the councilor’s pronouncements only meant that the finance committee failed to review the controversial ordinance. ‘‘He is blaming others for the failure of his committee.’’
Advincula said the ordinance was endorsed by the City Economic Enterprise Management Board
(CEEMB) and directly came from the office of Mayor Vicente Emano.
"That (ordinance) was endorsed to my committee for approval as part of the process before it reached the plenary," Advincula said.
Advincula said at least four committees reviewed the ordinance before it was properly deliberated and approved by the council.
Sia has claimed that he demanded a list of the vendors and their corresponding debts from Advincula but he (Advincula) failed to show it to his committee.
"Sia should have insisted on it if he really wanted to see the list," said Advincula.
From Sia’s committee, he said the proposal was instead passed on to the committee on laws and rules chaired by Councilor Maryanne Enteria.
Advincula said he did not participate when the other committees tackled the proposal.
"Why did he (Sia) allow it to reach the laws and rules committee if the things he required were not met," Advincula said.
He said Sia should be held liable for allowing the proposal to be approved by the city council without the finance committee’s green light.
Sia earlier claimed he was surprised when the council tackled the then proposed ordinance given Advincula’s alleged failure to show the finance committee the list he required. But he said he voted in favor of the proposal.
Advincula said, ‘‘He (Sia) has been a councilor for quite a time already yet until now he doesn’t know what he is doing.’’
Charge other councilors too, Nanding dares critics
EMBATTLED Councilor Reynaldo Advincula yesterday challenged his critics to file charges against him and all the councilors who voted to write off the debts of the city’s public market vendors.
"Why only Ian (Nacaya)? Is it because he is my son-in-law?" Advincula asked. "It should be all of us or those who voted for the ordinance.’’
Advincula said his critics wanted to involve Councilor Ian Mark Nacaya in an attempt to establish a case of conflict of interest.
In April, Advincula and Nacaya voted in favor of Ordinance no. 10127-2006 that wiped off the debts of market vendors leasing stalls at the city hall-owned markets in 2001 and the preceding years. The debts of the Advinculas were among the debts written off.
Ex-vice mayor Antonio Soriano and former mayor Manolo Tagarda Sr. said Advincula and Nacaya, his son-in-law, could be held liable for voting for a city law that benefitted the Advinculas.
Advincula said Soriano and Tagarda should sue all the councilors who voted for the ordinance if they were convinced that the passage of the city law was illegal. He said he or Nacaya should not be singled out.
Only five other councilors voted for the ordinance. They are councilors Annie Daba, Simeon Licayan, Edgar Cabanlas, Alfonso Goking and Maryanne Enteria.
Those who abstained or failed to vote or were absent were councilors Jose Benjamin Benaldo, Zaldy Ocon, the then Sangguniang Kabataan Federation president Benmarc Garcia, Ceasar Ian Acenas, Alvin Calingin and Alexander Dacer.
Advincula reiterated his call for Tagarda, who sharply criticized him, to sue him.
"Why don’t he file it before the ombudsman now? That’s his (Tagarda) right and prerogative," said Advincula. "I will not try to stop him."
Tagarda has threatened to bring Advincula before the ombudsman for doing business in a local government-owned property. He said Advincula would likely be the first city hall official to face a case before the newly opened extension office of the ombudsman in Cagayan de Oro.
"I’m not afraid to face him (Tagarda). If he is really serious, he should start drafting his complaint against me," Advincula said.
‘‘I’m only hoping that he will have a basis this time," said Advincula even as he mocked Tagarda for supposedly losing a case against him before.
Advincula said Tagarda would likely revive a dismissed case filed in regard to an attempt by a group of vendors to occupy stalls at the Cogon public market.
Advincula said Tagarda had sued him because he (Advincula) personally barred the vendors’ group from illegally establishing stalls at the city’s busiest market.
"Some of them forcibly entered and occupied market stalls. I was the one who barred them (vendors) being the city council’s economic enterprise head. They had no legal papers to occupy the stalls and it was unfair to vendors who acquired stalls legally," Advincula said.
Advincula’s son, Reynaldo Jr., is a stallholder. The councilor also admitted that his sister is doing business at Cogon market.
"He (Tagarda) already filed a case against me and the city, but it was already dismissed by the court because it had no basis,’’ said Advincula. "If they really have a basis, file the case as soon as possible. The ombudsman’s office is just a few minutes away."
Advincula also lashed at ex-vice mayor Soriano for calling Ordinance no. 10127-2006 ‘‘defective.’’
"Who is he (Soriano) to say that the ordinance is defective? Is he an authority?’’ asked Advincula , adding that Soriano was talking like a judge.
Advincula said only a court can declare the ordinance defective.
">Link
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Magtajas: Nanding blames everyone but himself
FORMER mayor Pablo Magtajas lashed back at embattled Councilor Rey-naldo Advincula even as he denied being the brains behind an ordinance that has been blamed for the accumulation of market vendors’ debts
‘‘He (Advincula) is now blaming everyone but himself for the mess he is in,’’ said Magtajas in an interview over the weekend. ‘‘He is trying to deviate from the real issue which is delicadeza.’’
Advincula has called Magtajas the ‘‘culprit’’ and the one responsible for the failure of market vendors to pay city hall their rent. The combined debts of the vendors, according to Advincula, reached nearly P10 million because of an ordinance that dramatically increased stall rentals. The ordinance, according to the councilor, was passed by the council during the Magtajas administration.
"Advincula is already cornered so he is deviating from the real issue. He is trying to escape," Magtajas said. "What ordinance is he talking about? I don’t know what he’s talking about and I never pushed for the approval of an ordinance that increased stall rentals.’’
Magtajas challenged Advincula to show proof that would show he (Magtajas) was to blame for the vendors’ debts that ballooned to some P10 million.
"Nine years have passed and I can’t understand why Advincula would accuse me of something that’s not my doing," Magtajas.
Instead, Magtajas said Advincula should ask Mayor Vicente Emano to explain why the debts of market vendors ballooned to some P10 million.
Last April, the city council approved an ordinance that wrote off the debts of vendors, including the debts of the Advinculas, in 2001 and the preceding years. Advincula, who voted for the ordinance, said the April ordinance had to be passed to correct a ‘‘mistake’’ made during the Magtajas administration.
"He is dreaming," Magtajas said. "The issue is delicadeza, his business interests at the market. What he did is clearly a serious offense against Cagayanons."
Magtajas also sharply criticized city hall for approving an ordinance that wrote off the vendors’ debts without specifying the amount involved.
"The city council is also liable for passing that ordinance, they allowed Advincula’s debts to be written off," said Magtajas, adding that no one raised a question on Advincula’s ‘‘conflict of interest.’’
Advincula has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing in connection with his "videoke" and video game machine business at the 3rd level of city hall-owned Cogon market. The councilor allegedly maintains a stall at a lower level under the name of his son Reynaldo Jr.
That can be read at Gold Star Daily
‘‘He (Advincula) is now blaming everyone but himself for the mess he is in,’’ said Magtajas in an interview over the weekend. ‘‘He is trying to deviate from the real issue which is delicadeza.’’
Advincula has called Magtajas the ‘‘culprit’’ and the one responsible for the failure of market vendors to pay city hall their rent. The combined debts of the vendors, according to Advincula, reached nearly P10 million because of an ordinance that dramatically increased stall rentals. The ordinance, according to the councilor, was passed by the council during the Magtajas administration.
"Advincula is already cornered so he is deviating from the real issue. He is trying to escape," Magtajas said. "What ordinance is he talking about? I don’t know what he’s talking about and I never pushed for the approval of an ordinance that increased stall rentals.’’
Magtajas challenged Advincula to show proof that would show he (Magtajas) was to blame for the vendors’ debts that ballooned to some P10 million.
"Nine years have passed and I can’t understand why Advincula would accuse me of something that’s not my doing," Magtajas.
Instead, Magtajas said Advincula should ask Mayor Vicente Emano to explain why the debts of market vendors ballooned to some P10 million.
Last April, the city council approved an ordinance that wrote off the debts of vendors, including the debts of the Advinculas, in 2001 and the preceding years. Advincula, who voted for the ordinance, said the April ordinance had to be passed to correct a ‘‘mistake’’ made during the Magtajas administration.
"He is dreaming," Magtajas said. "The issue is delicadeza, his business interests at the market. What he did is clearly a serious offense against Cagayanons."
Magtajas also sharply criticized city hall for approving an ordinance that wrote off the vendors’ debts without specifying the amount involved.
"The city council is also liable for passing that ordinance, they allowed Advincula’s debts to be written off," said Magtajas, adding that no one raised a question on Advincula’s ‘‘conflict of interest.’’
Advincula has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing in connection with his "videoke" and video game machine business at the 3rd level of city hall-owned Cogon market. The councilor allegedly maintains a stall at a lower level under the name of his son Reynaldo Jr.
That can be read at Gold Star Daily
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Nanding: It's Ambing's fault
EMBATTLED Councilor Reynaldo Advincula has gone ballistic over the city’s market mess even as he lashed at ex-mayor Pablo Magtajas and his former colleagues in the city council for city hall’s failure to collect stall rentals.
But as he hurled brickbats at Magtajas and the opposition, Advincula also gave a hint on the amount of bad debts the Emano administration and its council wrote off. Last April, Advincula and other councilors approved an ordinance writing off the vendors’ debts in 2001 and the preceding years. The ordinance did not state how much the bad debts were.
However, Advincula said the vendors’ debts reached nearly P10 million because of an ordinance passed by the city council during the Magtajas administration.
It was Magtajas who pushed for the passage of the ordinance that increased market stall rentals, he said.
"Magtajas is the culprit... the debts balloooned from thousands to millions of pesos because of his ordinance," said Advincula who served as a councilor then.
Advincula said the debts accumulated because vendors at that time found the new rates exorbitant. He said vendors leasing stalls at the meat sections of the markets were adversely affected.
He said he voted against the Magtajas ordinance. "I objected and did not vote but the ordinance was approved. I was the only one who opposed."
Advincula accused the councilors at that time of approving the ordinance ‘‘without thinking.’’
The councilors then are mostly prominent figures of the local opposition today.
Advincula said Magtajas pushed for the approval of the ordinance after he created through an executive order the City Economic Enterprise Management Board (CEEMB).
Because the vendors were badly hit, Advincula said the Meat Vendors’ Association of Cagayan de Oro (Mecameva) and other market-based organizations brought Magtajas to court. He said the case reached the Supreme Court.
The case, he said, prompted vendors to stop paying their rent.
"That (increase) is the reason why some of the market vendors also withdrew from their stalls," Advincula said.
Advincula said the stall rent (1½ x1½ meter space) was only P60 before the Magtajas administration increased it to P900 and subsequently to P1,000 per stall.
Because of this, Advincula said the Emano administration decided to condone the vendors’ debts, including penalties and surcharges, in 2001 and earlier through Ordinance no. 10127-2006.
Advincula said Emano and the present councilors saw the Magtajas ordinance as ‘‘defective,’’ hence the move the write off the bad debts.
He said when he favored the approval of the ordinance last April, it did not mean that "I voted to write off my own debts.’’
‘‘It was jointly moved and jointly seconded," he said.
">Link
But as he hurled brickbats at Magtajas and the opposition, Advincula also gave a hint on the amount of bad debts the Emano administration and its council wrote off. Last April, Advincula and other councilors approved an ordinance writing off the vendors’ debts in 2001 and the preceding years. The ordinance did not state how much the bad debts were.
However, Advincula said the vendors’ debts reached nearly P10 million because of an ordinance passed by the city council during the Magtajas administration.
It was Magtajas who pushed for the passage of the ordinance that increased market stall rentals, he said.
"Magtajas is the culprit... the debts balloooned from thousands to millions of pesos because of his ordinance," said Advincula who served as a councilor then.
Advincula said the debts accumulated because vendors at that time found the new rates exorbitant. He said vendors leasing stalls at the meat sections of the markets were adversely affected.
He said he voted against the Magtajas ordinance. "I objected and did not vote but the ordinance was approved. I was the only one who opposed."
Advincula accused the councilors at that time of approving the ordinance ‘‘without thinking.’’
The councilors then are mostly prominent figures of the local opposition today.
Advincula said Magtajas pushed for the approval of the ordinance after he created through an executive order the City Economic Enterprise Management Board (CEEMB).
Because the vendors were badly hit, Advincula said the Meat Vendors’ Association of Cagayan de Oro (Mecameva) and other market-based organizations brought Magtajas to court. He said the case reached the Supreme Court.
The case, he said, prompted vendors to stop paying their rent.
"That (increase) is the reason why some of the market vendors also withdrew from their stalls," Advincula said.
Advincula said the stall rent (1½ x1½ meter space) was only P60 before the Magtajas administration increased it to P900 and subsequently to P1,000 per stall.
Because of this, Advincula said the Emano administration decided to condone the vendors’ debts, including penalties and surcharges, in 2001 and earlier through Ordinance no. 10127-2006.
Advincula said Emano and the present councilors saw the Magtajas ordinance as ‘‘defective,’’ hence the move the write off the bad debts.
He said when he favored the approval of the ordinance last April, it did not mean that "I voted to write off my own debts.’’
‘‘It was jointly moved and jointly seconded," he said.
">Link
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Ombudsman : Mindanao "Least Corrupt"
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MIKE BAÑOS / June 22) If the state of graft and corruption in the country was gauged by the number of cases filed with the Ombudsman, Mindanao would be the "least corrupt" region in the entire Philippines.
"When I started my term seven years ago, we had 1,500 pending cases," said Deputy Ombudsman for Mindanao Antonio E. Valenzuela. "By the end of 2005, we only had 330 cases remaining in various stages of investigation, from fact-finding to preliminary investigation. Although this has again risen to about 580, it still represents a significant decrease over the years."
Valenzuela joined Tanodbayan Ma. Merceditas Gutierrez and other officials from the Ombudsman for a two day visit here June 19-20 to address a seminar for barangay officials and officially inaugurate the Ombudsman's first regional office in Mindanao.
"When I started my term, we used to receive over 300 complaints a month," he added. "This is now down to some 80 monthly."
Valuenzuela, 66, will retire on July 2 after his seven year term expires. He attributes the decreasing number of graft and corruption filed with the Office of the Deputy Ombudsman for Mindanao in Davao City to the successful implementation of the pro-active preventive programs of the Ombudsman.
"In fact, I can tell you barangay officials are not corrupt," Tanodbayan Gutierrez told the 160 barangay officials in her keynote address during the one-day seminar on "Integrity Development and Public Accountability" hosted by the city June 19. She said the cases filed against barangay officials show that "the acts committed were more in abuse of authority than dishonesty. Medyo yumayabang."
Guiterrez said the Office of the Ombudsman has committed itself to "shepherd a convergence process that would lead to the formation of a comprehensive National Anti-Corruption Program of Action (NACPA) that would involve many sectors, as well as LGUs and barangays, in a focused effort to fight head-on the scourge of corruption."
Acting Assistant Ombudsman Evelyn A. Baliton attributed the success of the Ombudsman in curbing the number of graft and corruption being investigated by their office not only in Mindanao but nationwide (from 12,000 to 10,000) to the two-pronged holistic approach of the "pro-active/reactive" strategy espoused by the Tanodbayan.
This includes increasing awareness of the extent of the problem by society in partnership with the media, values formation of government officials through initiatives like the Ehem! Aha! Anti-corruption cultural seminar being implemented with the help of the Society of Jesus, Integrity Development Review which aims to study "systems-based corruption prevention" in critical government agencies like the BIR, Bureau of Customs, PNP, LTO and DPWH; institutionalizing reform through the establishment of "integrity committees" with a champion in each agency, the resident ombudsman and stakeholders; and by strengthening the system of "Resident Ombudsman" by promoting integrity through the association of regional officials and repositioning their roles from policemen or spies to a group of men and women complementing the anti-corruption and prevention programs in their respective agencies.
Gutierrez admitted in her talk at the inauguration of the Cagayan de Oro regional office her inclination of a "pro-active, reactive" strategy for the Ombudsman since she took over the agency six months ago.
"Although I favor the pro-active stance over the reactive, for now the two will have to be combined, much like a pincher attack on the enemy from two directions…one strengthens the other," she added.
Valenzuela admitted to the success of the two-pronged strategy in curbing the number of pending cases in Mindanao.
"It is very difficult to recover stolen money," the retiring Deputy Ombudsman said. "Better to prevent and discourage graft and corruption by encouraging honesty and integrity."
"mike_banos_2000@yahoo.com>Link
"When I started my term seven years ago, we had 1,500 pending cases," said Deputy Ombudsman for Mindanao Antonio E. Valenzuela. "By the end of 2005, we only had 330 cases remaining in various stages of investigation, from fact-finding to preliminary investigation. Although this has again risen to about 580, it still represents a significant decrease over the years."
Valenzuela joined Tanodbayan Ma. Merceditas Gutierrez and other officials from the Ombudsman for a two day visit here June 19-20 to address a seminar for barangay officials and officially inaugurate the Ombudsman's first regional office in Mindanao.
"When I started my term, we used to receive over 300 complaints a month," he added. "This is now down to some 80 monthly."
Valuenzuela, 66, will retire on July 2 after his seven year term expires. He attributes the decreasing number of graft and corruption filed with the Office of the Deputy Ombudsman for Mindanao in Davao City to the successful implementation of the pro-active preventive programs of the Ombudsman.
"In fact, I can tell you barangay officials are not corrupt," Tanodbayan Gutierrez told the 160 barangay officials in her keynote address during the one-day seminar on "Integrity Development and Public Accountability" hosted by the city June 19. She said the cases filed against barangay officials show that "the acts committed were more in abuse of authority than dishonesty. Medyo yumayabang."
Guiterrez said the Office of the Ombudsman has committed itself to "shepherd a convergence process that would lead to the formation of a comprehensive National Anti-Corruption Program of Action (NACPA) that would involve many sectors, as well as LGUs and barangays, in a focused effort to fight head-on the scourge of corruption."
Acting Assistant Ombudsman Evelyn A. Baliton attributed the success of the Ombudsman in curbing the number of graft and corruption being investigated by their office not only in Mindanao but nationwide (from 12,000 to 10,000) to the two-pronged holistic approach of the "pro-active/reactive" strategy espoused by the Tanodbayan.
This includes increasing awareness of the extent of the problem by society in partnership with the media, values formation of government officials through initiatives like the Ehem! Aha! Anti-corruption cultural seminar being implemented with the help of the Society of Jesus, Integrity Development Review which aims to study "systems-based corruption prevention" in critical government agencies like the BIR, Bureau of Customs, PNP, LTO and DPWH; institutionalizing reform through the establishment of "integrity committees" with a champion in each agency, the resident ombudsman and stakeholders; and by strengthening the system of "Resident Ombudsman" by promoting integrity through the association of regional officials and repositioning their roles from policemen or spies to a group of men and women complementing the anti-corruption and prevention programs in their respective agencies.
Gutierrez admitted in her talk at the inauguration of the Cagayan de Oro regional office her inclination of a "pro-active, reactive" strategy for the Ombudsman since she took over the agency six months ago.
"Although I favor the pro-active stance over the reactive, for now the two will have to be combined, much like a pincher attack on the enemy from two directions…one strengthens the other," she added.
Valenzuela admitted to the success of the two-pronged strategy in curbing the number of pending cases in Mindanao.
"It is very difficult to recover stolen money," the retiring Deputy Ombudsman said. "Better to prevent and discourage graft and corruption by encouraging honesty and integrity."
"mike_banos_2000@yahoo.com>Link
B'non transport group slams bus firm for breaking agreement
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY ( AMOR BARLISAN / June 21) ORGANIZED public vehicle operators and drivers yesterday called on Bukidnon Gov. Jose Ma. Zubiri to step in and act on a complaint against the bus company Super 5 for alleged "undercharging."
The group’s lawyer, Eleazer Boycillo, urged Zubiri and other Bukidnon officials to act because the firm allegedly failed to comply with an agreement against undercharging signed by Super 5 owners Paul and Marieta Padayhag.
Boycillo said the ‘‘covenant’’ was made after Zubiri initiated a negotiation in Malaybalay on Nov. 7, 2005.
He accused Super 5 of sabotaging the local transport industry.
A complaint against the Padayhags has been filed before the Land Transportaion Franchising and Regulatory Board in connection with the alleged fare undercharging.
The Bukidnon Operators and Drivers Association (Boda), Vans-for-Hire Operators in Bukidnon (VHO), and Northern Bukidnon Transport Service Cooperative (BTSC) recently filed another complaint against Super 5 for ‘‘willfully and maliciously’’ violating the LTFRB’s passenger fare matrix.
"Not only did they violate the fare matrix, they also broke the ‘covenant’ that we have signed in front of Gov. Zubiri," Boycillo said.
He said what Super 5 allegedly did was and insult and ‘‘a slap on Zubiri’s face.’’
Boycillo said operators and driver of small public vehicles in Bukidnon were adversely affected. He said the practice of undercharging posed unfair competition and it ‘‘is killing the transport undustry.’’
"We have been suffering from this undercharging by Super 5 since 1992," Boycillo said.
"We want the immediate intervention of local government officials otherwise, we won’t survive," Boycillo added.
A similar complaint has been aired against Super 5 by transport groups in Iligan, Lanao del Norte and Misamis Oriental. The groups have threatened to paralyze much of the public transportation in this part of the country unless the LTFRB acts on a complaint against the bus company.
The LTFRB has set a pre-hearing of the case against Super 5 on June 30.
"If the LTFRB fails, we will joining Iligan and Lanao del Norte groups in their plan to stage a strike," Boycillo said.
"can be read at Gold Star Daily>Link
The group’s lawyer, Eleazer Boycillo, urged Zubiri and other Bukidnon officials to act because the firm allegedly failed to comply with an agreement against undercharging signed by Super 5 owners Paul and Marieta Padayhag.
Boycillo said the ‘‘covenant’’ was made after Zubiri initiated a negotiation in Malaybalay on Nov. 7, 2005.
He accused Super 5 of sabotaging the local transport industry.
A complaint against the Padayhags has been filed before the Land Transportaion Franchising and Regulatory Board in connection with the alleged fare undercharging.
The Bukidnon Operators and Drivers Association (Boda), Vans-for-Hire Operators in Bukidnon (VHO), and Northern Bukidnon Transport Service Cooperative (BTSC) recently filed another complaint against Super 5 for ‘‘willfully and maliciously’’ violating the LTFRB’s passenger fare matrix.
"Not only did they violate the fare matrix, they also broke the ‘covenant’ that we have signed in front of Gov. Zubiri," Boycillo said.
He said what Super 5 allegedly did was and insult and ‘‘a slap on Zubiri’s face.’’
Boycillo said operators and driver of small public vehicles in Bukidnon were adversely affected. He said the practice of undercharging posed unfair competition and it ‘‘is killing the transport undustry.’’
"We have been suffering from this undercharging by Super 5 since 1992," Boycillo said.
"We want the immediate intervention of local government officials otherwise, we won’t survive," Boycillo added.
A similar complaint has been aired against Super 5 by transport groups in Iligan, Lanao del Norte and Misamis Oriental. The groups have threatened to paralyze much of the public transportation in this part of the country unless the LTFRB acts on a complaint against the bus company.
The LTFRB has set a pre-hearing of the case against Super 5 on June 30.
"If the LTFRB fails, we will joining Iligan and Lanao del Norte groups in their plan to stage a strike," Boycillo said.
"can be read at Gold Star Daily>Link
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Nanding to Ambing: Look who's talking?
COUNCILOR Reynaldo Advincula lashed at ex-mayor Pablo Magtajas, accusing the city’s former leader of ‘‘early politicking’’ in an effort to win market votes at his expense.
Magtajas has accused Advincula of maintaining stalls in city hall-owned markets in Cogon, Agora in Lapasan, Carmen and Bulua in violation of the code of conduct and ethical standards for public officials.
But Advincula said Magtajas was merely riding on what he called a smear campaign against him.
Before pointing an accusing finger, Advincula said Magtajas should first explain the release of P23 million supposedly to pay for a feasibility study for a bridge project shortly before the then mayor stepped down in 1998.
He said Magtajas released the fund on March 26, 1998, shortly before the 1998 deadline for the filing of certificates of candidacy.
"Was that lawful? He (Magtajas) released it without a feasibility study," Advincula asked, adding that the city council, at that time, approved a build-operate-transfer scheme for the Magtajas administation-planned bridge.
Advincula was a member of the city council at that time but he claimed he did not vote in favor of the check’s release because some requirements were not complied with.
"I have a record and I have the details. The question is, where is the P23 million?" he asked. He said he even kept a photocopy of the P23-million check issued by city hall nearly a decade ago.
Which is why, said Advincula, Magtajas should not portray himself like an ‘‘innocent child’’ and like he is ‘‘clean as crystal.’’
He added: "I’m not saying that Magtajas pocketed the money... I’m just asking ‘where is now the money?’"
Denial
Advincula denied he was leasing stalls in any of the city’s public markets.
He said he used to be a stallholder but he waived his right in favor of his sister in 1992 when he became chair of the council’s economic enterprise committee. The stall which he had since 1970, he said, is now registered under the name of his son Reynaldo Jr.
Advincula said he had owed city hall less than P10 thousand in back rentals. But the debt was written off by city hall on the basis of Ordinance no. 10127-2006, he said. The city also wrote of all surcharges and penalties.
"The ordinance applies to all stallholders in the public markets of the city," said Advincula. ‘‘At present, I have no more stalls.’’
He said his sister suffered a stroke recently and her regular payments to city hall were affected.
Advincula said the stall had been awarded to him without political intervention. "It was purely own my own."
Earlier, Advincula admitted to owning coin-operated "videoke" and video game machines at the 3rd floor of Cogon market. The establishment, he said, is registered under the name of his business partner Rene Cordova and a relative.
Advincula said he yielded the business to Cordova after city legal officer Cancio Guibone questioned his business interests at Cogon market.
He said it was unfair of his critics to be accusing him of using his city hall position for his business interests.
Advincula said, ‘‘If that’s true, I would already own a house and a car like some politicians who have enriched themselves by having secret transactions.’’ He said he still lives in a ‘‘squatters’ area’’ near Agora market.
"I have been living with vendors, and I have been serving them for 16 years. I know their problems and I understand the masses,’’ said Advincula.
http://www.cagayandeorojournal.blogspot.com/ that can be read at Gold Syar Daily
"gsd9000.tripod.com>Link
No COWD overpricing says Baldelovar
A DIRECTOR of the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) yesterday denied any hand in the alleged overpricing of water meters and machines bought by the firm last year.
There was no overpricing, said former broadcast executive and COWD board secretary Joel Baldelovar.
Baldelovar, a former area manager of Bombo Radyo Philippines, and COWD chairperson Raymundo Java were linked to the alleged irregularities involving the purchase of water meters, a compressor and a welding machine.
But Baldelovar said he and Dr. Java did not decide on their own. He said the decision to buy devices and equipment was approved by the COWD board which is a ‘‘collegial body’’ composed of members with ‘‘independent minds.’’ It was, according to Baldelovar, ‘‘a collective decision."
He described the accusations as ‘‘foul and unfounded’’ and ‘‘fabricated,’’ adding that the COWD board’s decision in all the transactions ‘‘were all above board and legal."
He said the accusations were devoid of logic because the members of the COWD board include former city prosecutor Viviana Sarmiento and prominent Cagayan de Oro lawyer Frederico Gapuz. ‘‘It is illogical that they would concur and cast their votes on something that is illegal," said Baldelovar.
Councilor Zaldy Ocon, who received the complaint, said he would ask Java and Baldelovar to shed light on the matter before the city council.
Compressor
On the purchase of a compressor, Baldelovar said the firm Civic Merchandising had a "budgetary offer" of P984,500 for a brand new Ingersoll-Rand Compressor, Model P185WIR, as of March 30, 2005. But he explained that the offer was valid for 30 days only or until April 29.
On April 7, 2005, according to Baldelovar, a purchase requisition (PR) was made for a brand new air compressor. However, he said, the bidding was made by the COWD’s Bids and Awards Committee on Nov. 8, 2005 or seven months after the PR was issued.
"The ‘budgetary offer’ was for 30 days only so it lapsed," Baldelovar said.
Prior to the bidding or on Oct.17, 2005, he said COWD general manager Engr. Gaspar Gonzales Jr. received another price quotation from Civic Merchandising for the latest Ingersoll-Rand compressor model (P185 Platinum Series). He said it was priced at P1.8 million.
According to Baldelovar, the previous model was no longer available in the market as the "last inventory had already been disposed in Singapore."
"Obviously, it was no longer a ‘budgetary offer’," Baldelovar said.
He denied that he, Java and the supplier met shortly before the purchase.
Baldelovar said a failure of bidding was declared last Nov. 8 because the approved budget was only for P984,500. This prompted the COWD board to unanimously approve P1.8 million to buy the Ingersoll-Rand compressor, Model P185 Platinum Series, through "direct contracting."
"Direct contracting" is an alternative method of procurement if goods are sold by an exclusive dealer or manufacturer as provided for under R.A. 9184.
Welding Machine
He said ‘‘direct contracting’’ was also resorted to when the COWD board unanimously approved the purchase of a welding machine.
Baldelovar admitted that there was an offer for a Hobart Contractor 251D for P589 thousand plus a trailer amounting to P48,200 only. But Baldelovar said COWD considered it ‘‘disadvantageous in the long run’’ because spare parts were no longer available in the market.
"Should the board of directors be faulted and accused maliciously when they only acted and exercised their discretion according to what is legal and practical under the circumstances?" Baldelovar asked.
Water Meters
He also strongly denied that water meters bought by COWD were overpriced, saying the allegation was baseless.
In 1997, Baldelovar said, the COWD board passed a resolution to purchase Asahi Meters since it passed the tests conducted for accuracy and efficiency.
"Do Java and I have a hand in the prices of Asahi Meters when the same has been there even before we entered the COWD?" asked Baldelovar, pointing out that the price has been set years before their appointment to the COWD.
Java rejoined the COWD board in January 2001 while Baldelovar was appointed director effective Jan. 1, 2005 by Mayor Vicente Emano.
http://www.cagayandeorojournal.blogspot.com
There was no overpricing, said former broadcast executive and COWD board secretary Joel Baldelovar.
Baldelovar, a former area manager of Bombo Radyo Philippines, and COWD chairperson Raymundo Java were linked to the alleged irregularities involving the purchase of water meters, a compressor and a welding machine.
But Baldelovar said he and Dr. Java did not decide on their own. He said the decision to buy devices and equipment was approved by the COWD board which is a ‘‘collegial body’’ composed of members with ‘‘independent minds.’’ It was, according to Baldelovar, ‘‘a collective decision."
He described the accusations as ‘‘foul and unfounded’’ and ‘‘fabricated,’’ adding that the COWD board’s decision in all the transactions ‘‘were all above board and legal."
He said the accusations were devoid of logic because the members of the COWD board include former city prosecutor Viviana Sarmiento and prominent Cagayan de Oro lawyer Frederico Gapuz. ‘‘It is illogical that they would concur and cast their votes on something that is illegal," said Baldelovar.
Councilor Zaldy Ocon, who received the complaint, said he would ask Java and Baldelovar to shed light on the matter before the city council.
Compressor
On the purchase of a compressor, Baldelovar said the firm Civic Merchandising had a "budgetary offer" of P984,500 for a brand new Ingersoll-Rand Compressor, Model P185WIR, as of March 30, 2005. But he explained that the offer was valid for 30 days only or until April 29.
On April 7, 2005, according to Baldelovar, a purchase requisition (PR) was made for a brand new air compressor. However, he said, the bidding was made by the COWD’s Bids and Awards Committee on Nov. 8, 2005 or seven months after the PR was issued.
"The ‘budgetary offer’ was for 30 days only so it lapsed," Baldelovar said.
Prior to the bidding or on Oct.17, 2005, he said COWD general manager Engr. Gaspar Gonzales Jr. received another price quotation from Civic Merchandising for the latest Ingersoll-Rand compressor model (P185 Platinum Series). He said it was priced at P1.8 million.
According to Baldelovar, the previous model was no longer available in the market as the "last inventory had already been disposed in Singapore."
"Obviously, it was no longer a ‘budgetary offer’," Baldelovar said.
He denied that he, Java and the supplier met shortly before the purchase.
Baldelovar said a failure of bidding was declared last Nov. 8 because the approved budget was only for P984,500. This prompted the COWD board to unanimously approve P1.8 million to buy the Ingersoll-Rand compressor, Model P185 Platinum Series, through "direct contracting."
"Direct contracting" is an alternative method of procurement if goods are sold by an exclusive dealer or manufacturer as provided for under R.A. 9184.
Welding Machine
He said ‘‘direct contracting’’ was also resorted to when the COWD board unanimously approved the purchase of a welding machine.
Baldelovar admitted that there was an offer for a Hobart Contractor 251D for P589 thousand plus a trailer amounting to P48,200 only. But Baldelovar said COWD considered it ‘‘disadvantageous in the long run’’ because spare parts were no longer available in the market.
"Should the board of directors be faulted and accused maliciously when they only acted and exercised their discretion according to what is legal and practical under the circumstances?" Baldelovar asked.
Water Meters
He also strongly denied that water meters bought by COWD were overpriced, saying the allegation was baseless.
In 1997, Baldelovar said, the COWD board passed a resolution to purchase Asahi Meters since it passed the tests conducted for accuracy and efficiency.
"Do Java and I have a hand in the prices of Asahi Meters when the same has been there even before we entered the COWD?" asked Baldelovar, pointing out that the price has been set years before their appointment to the COWD.
Java rejoined the COWD board in January 2001 while Baldelovar was appointed director effective Jan. 1, 2005 by Mayor Vicente Emano.
http://www.cagayandeorojournal.blogspot.com
Saturday, June 17, 2006
2 COWD execs linked to overpricing
TWO ranking officials of the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) are facing an investigation over allegations that they were involved in the alleged overpricing of water meters and machines bought by the quasi-government company last year.
Councilor Zaldy Ocon said he would demand that the two COWD officials––Dr. Raymundo Java and Joel Baldelovar––be investigated on the basis of a complaint made by a group of employees of the company. Java is the chairperson of COWD while Baldelovar, a former broadcast executive, sits as a director of the board.
Java and Baldelovar were accused of having a hand in the alleged overpricing of water meters that were bought by the COWD for P1,900 each.
Ocon, citing the complaint, said the prevailing market price of a water meter like the ones bought by COWD is only P1,200, a difference of P700 each.
Ocon said the group of COWD employees have also linked Java and Baldelovar to the alleged overpricing of a compressor. The mechanical device costs some P900 thousand but COWD bought it for P1.8 million, according to the complaint, after a supposed meeting attended by Java and Baldelovar and the supplier.
The complaint, dated April 30, said the compressor supplier, Civic Merchandising, was given the go-ahead by the COWD board despite a declaration of a failure of bidding by the COWD’s Bids and Awards Committee last Nov. 10, 2005.
A day after Rey Tablan, the chair of the committee, declared the failure of bidding, the complaint said the same company priced the compressor at P1.8 million. Later, the complaint said, the COWD board approved a resolution in favor of Civic Merchandising.
Civic Merchandising’s first price quote for the compressor was P895 thousand but after the supposed meeting with Java and Baldelovar on Nov. 11, 2005, the price shot up to P1.8 million, the complainants alleged.
The signature of COWD technical assistant Leonarda Judith appeared in Nov. 11, 2005 resolution numbered 257, S-05, in favor of Civic Merchandising. On Nov. 17, a purchase order was made by COWD budget officer Marilou Ondap and this was approved by COWD manager Gaspar Gonzales.
Gonzales said he was on official travel and would discuss the matter with the COWD board on Monday.
Ocon said the complaint also showed that the COWD board approved a resolution that authorized the purchase of a welding machine without a proper bidding. The welding machine from Gemac Trading amounts to P984 thousand.
The complaining COWD employees alleged that welding machines with similar features can be bought for less than P500 thousand each.
Ocon said the complainants are regular workers of COWD but they requested anonymity for fear of harassment.
Ocon said he would ask the council to summon COWD officials so they could shed light on the complaint.
"I will ask that they be invited to explain the matter before the city council. There is a need to dig deeper into this issue in aid of legislation," said Ocon, adding that he feared that P905 thousand was pocketed in connection with the compressor deal alone.
Java sent this text message when Cagayan de Oro Journal tried to get his comment: ‘‘Sorry, I’m at a meeting.’’ He then asked that this paper get in touch with Baldelovar but the COWD director could not be located.
Ocon calculated that some P700 thousand could have likely been lost to corruption out of the water meter deal alone with Gemac Trading, a company owned by one Rey Zarate.
The water meters, according to the complaint, were inferior. (That can be read at Gold Star Daily)
http://www.cagayandeorojournal.blogspot.com
Councilor Zaldy Ocon said he would demand that the two COWD officials––Dr. Raymundo Java and Joel Baldelovar––be investigated on the basis of a complaint made by a group of employees of the company. Java is the chairperson of COWD while Baldelovar, a former broadcast executive, sits as a director of the board.
Java and Baldelovar were accused of having a hand in the alleged overpricing of water meters that were bought by the COWD for P1,900 each.
Ocon, citing the complaint, said the prevailing market price of a water meter like the ones bought by COWD is only P1,200, a difference of P700 each.
Ocon said the group of COWD employees have also linked Java and Baldelovar to the alleged overpricing of a compressor. The mechanical device costs some P900 thousand but COWD bought it for P1.8 million, according to the complaint, after a supposed meeting attended by Java and Baldelovar and the supplier.
The complaint, dated April 30, said the compressor supplier, Civic Merchandising, was given the go-ahead by the COWD board despite a declaration of a failure of bidding by the COWD’s Bids and Awards Committee last Nov. 10, 2005.
A day after Rey Tablan, the chair of the committee, declared the failure of bidding, the complaint said the same company priced the compressor at P1.8 million. Later, the complaint said, the COWD board approved a resolution in favor of Civic Merchandising.
Civic Merchandising’s first price quote for the compressor was P895 thousand but after the supposed meeting with Java and Baldelovar on Nov. 11, 2005, the price shot up to P1.8 million, the complainants alleged.
The signature of COWD technical assistant Leonarda Judith appeared in Nov. 11, 2005 resolution numbered 257, S-05, in favor of Civic Merchandising. On Nov. 17, a purchase order was made by COWD budget officer Marilou Ondap and this was approved by COWD manager Gaspar Gonzales.
Gonzales said he was on official travel and would discuss the matter with the COWD board on Monday.
Ocon said the complaint also showed that the COWD board approved a resolution that authorized the purchase of a welding machine without a proper bidding. The welding machine from Gemac Trading amounts to P984 thousand.
The complaining COWD employees alleged that welding machines with similar features can be bought for less than P500 thousand each.
Ocon said the complainants are regular workers of COWD but they requested anonymity for fear of harassment.
Ocon said he would ask the council to summon COWD officials so they could shed light on the complaint.
"I will ask that they be invited to explain the matter before the city council. There is a need to dig deeper into this issue in aid of legislation," said Ocon, adding that he feared that P905 thousand was pocketed in connection with the compressor deal alone.
Java sent this text message when Cagayan de Oro Journal tried to get his comment: ‘‘Sorry, I’m at a meeting.’’ He then asked that this paper get in touch with Baldelovar but the COWD director could not be located.
Ocon calculated that some P700 thousand could have likely been lost to corruption out of the water meter deal alone with Gemac Trading, a company owned by one Rey Zarate.
The water meters, according to the complaint, were inferior. (That can be read at Gold Star Daily)
http://www.cagayandeorojournal.blogspot.com
Mindanao Container Terminal Forges Forward
VILLANUEVA, MISAMIS ORIENTAL (MIKE BAÑOS / June 16) - Shipping traffic is finally picking up at the Mindanao Container Terminal (MCT) after international shipping lines serving Northern Mindanao are slowly but surely moving their business to the multi-billion peso facility.
The Phividec Industrial Authority (PIA) which administers the MCT says they are now receiving regular port calls from three shipping lines: Maersk-Filipinas, NMC Container Lines and Hamburg-Sud.
Maersk calls on the port every Wednesday, while NMC ships drop in every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. Hamburg-Sud calls only once every two months but will soon be joined by Lorenzo Container Shipping Corporation (Lorcon) which will be calling twice a week.
Container traffic in the MCT so far has been mostly contributed by NMC which regularly ships domestic cargo to Cebu and Manila.
PIA sources said they are still negotiating with American President Lines (APL), probably the largest volume shipper among the foreign shipping lines now calling on the region, since it primarily serves Del Monte Philippines Inc. which has its own port at its cannery in Bgy. Bugo, this city.
The MCT has been identified as a Mindanao flagship project of Mindanao, one of the key infrastructures needed to jump start the island's potential into reality. With a rated capacity of only 1.8 million metric tons (MT), the Cagayan de Oro base port at Macabalan already breached its maximum capacity
Considering the existing capacity of the Cagayan de Oro Baseport is only 1.8 million metric tons (MT), it is considered to have already breached its saturation point in 2002 when cargo throughput reached 2.79 million MT.
The MCT was conceived to fill the supply gap for an efficient cargo handling facility with its state of the art facilities and cargo handling equipment, capable of unloading one container van in about 2.5 minutes compared to 10 minutes for an ordinary port. It has been designed to be exclusively operated for fully-containered and semi-containerized domestic and foreign vessels and has an annual capacity of 270,000 TEUs for its first phase.
With the MCT, cargo can be efficiently shipped to and from its location at the Phividec Industrial Estate in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental, as well as those to and from other key growth centers in Mindanao, to the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines East-Asia Growth Area or the BIMP-EAGA Region, as well as the Asia-Pacific Region.
The bulk (85%) of the MCT's US$ 85.34 million (Php 3.24 Billion) capital cost was funded by the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) with the balance financed by PIA.
Despite the increasing containerized cargo traffic at the MCT, data from the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) Northern Mindanao District Office shows total ship calls in region 10's public and private ports still fell 2.54 percent to 31,728 from 32,729 2004. Growth in cargo traffic last year was flat (22,667,638 metric tons in 2004 vs. 22,814,783 MT in 2005 while total passenger traffic shrunk 6.68 percent to 6,607,219 compared to 7,079,894.
This trend has been carried over to the first quarter of 2006, with total ship calls falling 2.09% to 7,116 compared to 7,268 for the same period last year. Overall cargo traffic for the first quarter dropped a hefty 20.96 percent to 4,508,960 MT, driven by the 26.65 percent drop in foreign cargo throughput (2,628,296 MT) and 11.36 percent decrease in domestic cargo traffic (1,880,664). Total passenger traffic likewise dropped 11.42 percent to 1,271,749 from 1,435,690 for the same period last year.
Participants to the Quarterly Regional Economic Situationer (QRES) hosted by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Region 10 office last June 8 noted foreign ship calls and trade in the government-owned base ports of Cagayan de Oro, Iligan and Ozamiz have decreased mainly due to the transfer of Maersk to the MCT.
Other factors attributed to the decrease in foreign cargo traffic included the significant drop in imported dairy products and absence of any scrap metal exports during the period. Although two additional inter-island vessels now call regularly on Iligan port, there are still no foreign vessels calling on it.
In contrast, inbound and outbound foreign cargo throughput in private corporate ports within the jurisdiction of the Port Management Offices (PMOs) of Iligan and Ozamiz were attributed to the increased exports of coconut oil and copra pellets from the ports of Granexport Manufacturing Corp. and San Miguel Corporation and copra cake from TMOMI.
There were no exports of cold rolled steel sheets, however, from Global Steel Works International, Inc. (formerly National Steel Corporation or NSC) for January and March, 2005. This commodity accounted for 11.33 percent of the region's US$541.424-million total exports in 2005, ranking third among the region's top ten exports behind crude coconut oil ( 23.92%) and canned pineapple products (15.78%).
"mike_banos_2000@yahoo.com>Link
Friday, June 16, 2006
"Branding" change for Bike for Hope recommended
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MIKE BAÑOS / April 15) – Newsmen from this city have recommended that Sen. Pia Cayetano change the moniker "Bike for Hope" to something more relevant without hinting at commercialism.
"When we think of Hope, it's the cigarette which instantly comes to mind," said Vic Cabanag of DXIM Radyo ng Bayan . "Maybe it's better for the senator to change it into something more local or vernacular like say, Pajak para sa Pag-Asa instead of Bike for Hope because it gives people the impression the cigarette company is sponsoring the event and that runs counter to supposed aim of this project in the first place."
With the Marlboro already sponsoring the Tour ng Pilipinas bicycle race, Cabanag said it naturally follows that people will connect Hope cigarette to Bike for Hope which is not good.
Cabanag and other newsmen joined the Cagayan de Oro Press Club's weekly media forum "Media Konek" where Cayetano's "5th Bike for Hope" project was the featured topic.
However, Jun Morante, one of Cayetano's media staff, clarified that Hope in the case of the project stands for "Health of the People, Exercise is Best".
Mike Ac-ac, Cayetano's media relations officer, said some 500 bicycle enthusiasts are expected to join the "5th Bike for Hope" advocacy ride led by Cayetano on June 17. The four-hour, 100 kilometer ride will pass through the Misamis Oriental towns of Tagoloan, Villanueva, Jasaan, Balingasag and Lagonglong before returning by the same route for a culminating program at the provincial capitol.
Mailet Bonoan, Bike for Hope consultant, said the project started three years ago when Cayetano challenged her siblings to bike uphill to Baguio in memory of her late father, Sen. Rene "Companyero" Cayetano. It would also advocate for the improvement of people's quality of life through physical fitness, and biking is one of them, Bonoan added.
The 5th Bike for Hope is a project of the Companyero Rene Cayetano Foundation in cooperation with Misamis Oriental Gov. Oscar Moreno and the Misamis Oriental League of Municipalities led by Tagoloan Mayor Yevgeny "Bambi" Emano.
It is also sponsored by the Department of Tourism, Coca Cola Foundation, Nestle Philippines, Pilipinas Shell, Cebu Pacific, Universal Robina Corp., Pryce Pharmaceuticals, Promax, Endurox and Accelerade.
Bonoan said proceeds from the event would be used to support various health projects of the foundation, which aims to put up the country's first national liver center.
In addition to the advocacy ride, Bike for Hope community seminars will also be held from June 15-16 in the Misamis Oriental towns of Balingasag, Villanueva, Jasaan, Lagonglong, Salay, Balingoan, Tagoloan, Binuangan, Sugbongcogon and Talisayan on topics like solid waste management, prevention of violence against women and breastfeeding.
A fitness clinic will also be conducted for female students in Jasaan and Tagoloan by 2006 Asian Duathlon Champion Ryan "Bad Boy" Mendoza, national women's triathlon champion Ani de Leon and three-time national triathlon champion George Vilog. The seminar aim to empower women by teaching young girls about running and fitness, Bonoan said.
" mike_banos_2000@yahoo.com>Link
"When we think of Hope, it's the cigarette which instantly comes to mind," said Vic Cabanag of DXIM Radyo ng Bayan . "Maybe it's better for the senator to change it into something more local or vernacular like say, Pajak para sa Pag-Asa instead of Bike for Hope because it gives people the impression the cigarette company is sponsoring the event and that runs counter to supposed aim of this project in the first place."
With the Marlboro already sponsoring the Tour ng Pilipinas bicycle race, Cabanag said it naturally follows that people will connect Hope cigarette to Bike for Hope which is not good.
Cabanag and other newsmen joined the Cagayan de Oro Press Club's weekly media forum "Media Konek" where Cayetano's "5th Bike for Hope" project was the featured topic.
However, Jun Morante, one of Cayetano's media staff, clarified that Hope in the case of the project stands for "Health of the People, Exercise is Best".
Mike Ac-ac, Cayetano's media relations officer, said some 500 bicycle enthusiasts are expected to join the "5th Bike for Hope" advocacy ride led by Cayetano on June 17. The four-hour, 100 kilometer ride will pass through the Misamis Oriental towns of Tagoloan, Villanueva, Jasaan, Balingasag and Lagonglong before returning by the same route for a culminating program at the provincial capitol.
Mailet Bonoan, Bike for Hope consultant, said the project started three years ago when Cayetano challenged her siblings to bike uphill to Baguio in memory of her late father, Sen. Rene "Companyero" Cayetano. It would also advocate for the improvement of people's quality of life through physical fitness, and biking is one of them, Bonoan added.
The 5th Bike for Hope is a project of the Companyero Rene Cayetano Foundation in cooperation with Misamis Oriental Gov. Oscar Moreno and the Misamis Oriental League of Municipalities led by Tagoloan Mayor Yevgeny "Bambi" Emano.
It is also sponsored by the Department of Tourism, Coca Cola Foundation, Nestle Philippines, Pilipinas Shell, Cebu Pacific, Universal Robina Corp., Pryce Pharmaceuticals, Promax, Endurox and Accelerade.
Bonoan said proceeds from the event would be used to support various health projects of the foundation, which aims to put up the country's first national liver center.
In addition to the advocacy ride, Bike for Hope community seminars will also be held from June 15-16 in the Misamis Oriental towns of Balingasag, Villanueva, Jasaan, Lagonglong, Salay, Balingoan, Tagoloan, Binuangan, Sugbongcogon and Talisayan on topics like solid waste management, prevention of violence against women and breastfeeding.
A fitness clinic will also be conducted for female students in Jasaan and Tagoloan by 2006 Asian Duathlon Champion Ryan "Bad Boy" Mendoza, national women's triathlon champion Ani de Leon and three-time national triathlon champion George Vilog. The seminar aim to empower women by teaching young girls about running and fitness, Bonoan said.
" mike_banos_2000@yahoo.com>Link
Thursday, June 15, 2006
U.S. Embassy Statement:U.S. Cooperation Continues with Testimony of NCIS at Alleged Rape Trial of U.S. Marines Investigators
Consistent with our commitment to seeing that justice is served in a fair and impartial trial, the Government of the United States has agreed to allow several U.S. Government employees to testify at the trial of four U.S. Marines accused of rape.
Included are two officials of the U.S. Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) posted to the U.S. Embassy in Manila whose diplomatic immunity under the Vienna Convention the U.S. Government has waived for the limited purpose of testifying at this trial. The U.S. Government will also seek to bring back to the Philippines two additional NCIS employees who participated in the investigation of this case.
This decision was made following discussions with the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs and upon completion of the appropriate steps for requesting court testimony from persons covered by the Vienna Convention.
NCIS had provided the entirety of its preliminary written reports beginning in November 2005 to both the Office of the City Prosecutor in Olongapo and the defense counsels.
The U.S. Government has worked with Philippine authorities under the precepts of the Visiting Forces Agreement throughout the investigation of this alleged incident, and will continue to do so through the completion of the judicial proceedings.
The U.S. remains committed to seeing that justice is served, and looks forward to a fair and impartial process that can provide for a just outcome.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Bugo's 2 'chairs' sue each other
THE warring leaders of Bugo, Nerio Obliosca and Perseverando Araña Jr., yesterday filed charges against each other in hopes of quickly breaking a standoff that stemmed from a power struggle last Monday.
The two village politicians have each claimed to be the legal chair of Bugo, one of the biggest and vote-rich barangays of Cagayan de Oro. Since Monday afternoon, Obliosca and Arana have been separately holding office in their houses.
Obliosca was appointed chairperson of the barangay by Mayor Vicente Emano after Arana submitted a letter of resignation last February.
But on Monday, Arana attempted to reclaim Bugo’s top post, arguing that President Arroyo failed to accept his resignation.
Jose Alejandro Pallugna, Obliosca’s lawyer, filed a petition to prohibit Araña from exercising the powers of the barangay chair. Pallugna filed a petition for mandamus and a petition for a temporary restraining order (TRO).
Pallugna said the petition was aimed at protecting Obliosca’s post from being contested by anyone.
Pallugna said Obliosca would step down only if the court says so.‘‘You cannot take the law into your own hands,’’ said Pallugna, referring to Arana.
But Araña through his lawyer, Rogelio Bagabuyo, filed a petition for quo-warranto to prevent Obliosca from continuing to serve as Bugo’s barangay chair.
Obliosca is facing an uphill battle because none of the barangay councilors are supporting him. Despite this, Obliosca is clinging on to the post, maintaining that he is had the legal edge.
He said he has an oath of office to prove that he legally assumed as the village chief after Arana resigned early this year.
However, Araña maintained that he has remained as the barangay chair of Bugo because President Arroyo did not sign his resignation papers. He said his resignation letter only reached Mayor Emano.
Araña and Bugo councilors questioned the legality of the Obliosca’s "oath of office.""The proper authority to confirm or approve the resignation of the government officials is the office of the President and not that of the city mayor’s," Araña said.
Bagabuyo said only the President has the authority to accept the resignation of any member of the barangay council, including the chair, based on Republic Act 9340.
A provision in RA 9340 states that "all incumbent barangay officials shall remain in office unless soonest removed or suspended for cause until their successors shall have been elected and qualified."
With the terms of the Sangguniang Barangay extended until 2007, Araña said he had opted not to take advantage of the holdover capacity rule, hence his February resignation.
But Arana said the political crisis in Bugo prompted him to stage a comeback last Monday. He said he could not ignore the calls of his fellow barangay councilors for him to reassume.
Thus, at the height of Independence Day celebrations last Monday, Araña tried to retake the barangay hall with the full support of Bugo’s councilors.
"I am still the barangay captain of Bugo and I will not step down unless the court will says so," said Obliosca as he filed three cases against Arana.
"Araña is now coming back like an intruder," said Pallugna.
Araña, a lawyer by professon, said he would sign transactions on behalf of Bugo because he is "still the legitimate barangay chairperson." He reiterated that he did not receive any document that
would show that President Arroyo accepted his resignation.
"I did not even receive an order or an approval in regard to my resignation from the office of Mayor Emano," Araña said.
Pallugna warned that Araña could be charged with "usurpation of authority" if he forces the issue.
"He became an ordinary citizen of Bugo after he resigned," Pallugna said.
Obliosca sharply criticized Araña, saying he created ‘‘chaos’’ in Bugo.
"He has been deceiving people. He resigned and then he wants to return just because councilors want him to," said Obliosca.
Obliosca called Arana a "man with no words."
Bagabuyo, Arana’s lawyer, disagreed. He said Obliosca was the one who has been usurping on the powers of village chief because he was ‘‘not properly elected.’’
‘‘The assumption of Obliosca is unlawful,’’ said Bagabuyo.
Bugo’s councilors dislike Obliosca. They have accused Obliosca of forging signatures of villagers for the "People’s Initiative" campaign for Charter change early this year. They have also accused him of bypassing the barangay council in some of decisions like the termination of workers’ services.
Tension has been gripping Bugo since councilors and villagers padlocked the barangay hall last month. Anti-Obliosca rallies were staged in Bugo prior to Arana’s attempt to retake the chairmanship of Bugo last Monday.
Obliosca is facing charges of illegal dismissal and misconduct before the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). (That can be read at Gold Star Daily)
">http://www.blogger.com — www.blogger.com Link
Sue me, Nanding challenges critics
EMBATTLED Councilor Reynaldo Advincula has lashed back at his critics and dared them to sue him in connection with his business interests at the city hall-owned Cogon public market.
Advincula also dared his critics, including opposition Councilor Zaldy Ocon, to show proof that he broke laws.
He challenged Ocon to a debate before the city council’s blue ribbon committee or anywhere in the city.
"I can prove in public that I have not committed any illegal act," said Advincula.
Advincula was fuming over Ocon’s stinging commentaries over DxCC, a station of the Radio Mindanao Network (RMN) where the opposition councilor is program director and commentator.
"If Ocon believes that he is correct, he should sue me," said Advincula, adding that he wants to answer the issues at the ‘‘proper forum and proper time.’’
On separate occasions, Ocon and prominent Cagayan de Oro lawyer Frederico Gapuz have accused Advincula of violating the government’s code of ethics for public officials and employees by doing business at Cogon public market. They said Advincula also violated a provision of the Local Government Code.
Advincula denied conflicts of interest on his part, insisting that his business at the 3rd level of the city hall-owned market was legal.
Over DxCC, Ocon accused Advincula of taking advantage of his position in city hall to do business at Cogon public market. He said Advincula has been using his influence for his and his family’s interests.
"He (Advincula) is taking advantage of the people, he is anti-people," Ocon said.
He also accused Advincula of monopolizing the 3rd level of the public market for his business when hundreds of vendors have complained of not being awarded stalls at the city hall-owned property.
Advincula said there was nothing wrong with the ‘‘videoke’’ and video game machine business because all government requirements were complied with. He said the business is supported with business permit, clearances and other government papers.
Advincula hurled brickbats at Ocon, accusing the broadcaster cum councilor of being unfair.
"Where is balanced of reporting? He (Ocon) did not call me so I can air my side. His reports are always one-sided," Advincula said.
"Why is Ocon always attacking me over the radio? He should face me. I think he does not know what he is saying," Advincula said.
Advincula said Ocon and his other critics should immediately file charges against him if they are really serious in their accusations.
‘‘Prove that the business is illegal,’’ he said.
Advincula has argued that, technically, he has no lease contract with city hall because the market’s 3rd level is being ran by UKC Builders under a build-operate-transfer scheme contract with the local government. It was UKC that redeveloped the Cogon public market.
Meanwhile, Advincula said he has asked the Cogon police precinct to guard the 3rd level establishments and keep unwanted persons from the place.
He said he asked the police precinct chief to launch a ‘‘saturation drive’’ at the upper levels of the market to make the places safe for the public.
"can be read at Gold Star Daily>Link
Advincula also dared his critics, including opposition Councilor Zaldy Ocon, to show proof that he broke laws.
He challenged Ocon to a debate before the city council’s blue ribbon committee or anywhere in the city.
"I can prove in public that I have not committed any illegal act," said Advincula.
Advincula was fuming over Ocon’s stinging commentaries over DxCC, a station of the Radio Mindanao Network (RMN) where the opposition councilor is program director and commentator.
"If Ocon believes that he is correct, he should sue me," said Advincula, adding that he wants to answer the issues at the ‘‘proper forum and proper time.’’
On separate occasions, Ocon and prominent Cagayan de Oro lawyer Frederico Gapuz have accused Advincula of violating the government’s code of ethics for public officials and employees by doing business at Cogon public market. They said Advincula also violated a provision of the Local Government Code.
Advincula denied conflicts of interest on his part, insisting that his business at the 3rd level of the city hall-owned market was legal.
Over DxCC, Ocon accused Advincula of taking advantage of his position in city hall to do business at Cogon public market. He said Advincula has been using his influence for his and his family’s interests.
"He (Advincula) is taking advantage of the people, he is anti-people," Ocon said.
He also accused Advincula of monopolizing the 3rd level of the public market for his business when hundreds of vendors have complained of not being awarded stalls at the city hall-owned property.
Advincula said there was nothing wrong with the ‘‘videoke’’ and video game machine business because all government requirements were complied with. He said the business is supported with business permit, clearances and other government papers.
Advincula hurled brickbats at Ocon, accusing the broadcaster cum councilor of being unfair.
"Where is balanced of reporting? He (Ocon) did not call me so I can air my side. His reports are always one-sided," Advincula said.
"Why is Ocon always attacking me over the radio? He should face me. I think he does not know what he is saying," Advincula said.
Advincula said Ocon and his other critics should immediately file charges against him if they are really serious in their accusations.
‘‘Prove that the business is illegal,’’ he said.
Advincula has argued that, technically, he has no lease contract with city hall because the market’s 3rd level is being ran by UKC Builders under a build-operate-transfer scheme contract with the local government. It was UKC that redeveloped the Cogon public market.
Meanwhile, Advincula said he has asked the Cogon police precinct to guard the 3rd level establishments and keep unwanted persons from the place.
He said he asked the police precinct chief to launch a ‘‘saturation drive’’ at the upper levels of the market to make the places safe for the public.
"can be read at Gold Star Daily>Link
Emano leaves Trampe's fate to Alagar
CAGAYAN de Oro Mayor Vicente Emano said he would leave the decision to replace or retain embattled city police director Aurelio Trampe in the hands of Camp Alagar.
‘‘The decision will be up to (Chief Supt. Florante Baguio),’’ said Emano on the call of councilors to oust Senior Supt. Aurelio Trampe.
Emano said he recognized the right of Baguio to make decisions in regard to the appointment of Cagayan de Oro’s police director.
He said he and Baguio talked about Trampe but the mayor did not elaborate.
It was Councilor Reynaldo Advincula who first called for the ouster of Trampe due to an apparent breakdown in law enforcement in the city. He said Trampe should quit as a result of the rising cases of petty crimes, including cable thefts, in the city.
Two Mondays ago, the council passed a resolution expressing dismay over Trampe’s performance.
Over DxIF-Bombo Radyo, Emano said he did not initiate the moves to oust Trampe. He strongly denied reports he was behind the city council’s moves to have Trampe replaced.
"The issue is being politicized. If you ask me, I don’t want him (Trampe) to resign but if he really has problems facing criminals, it’s now up to him," Emano said.
But in the event that Camp Alagar decides to replace Trampe, Emano said he would also leave the appointment of a new police director in the hands of Baguio.
Emano said he was told that Trampe was willing to resign if ordered by Baguio. "Trampe is willing to relinquish his post."
Meanwhile, Camp Alagar said it was evaluating the performance of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (Cocpo) to determine if there was a basis for the call to replace Trampe.
But Baguio said the city police has intensified its efforts to solve crimes and in arresting criminals.
Baguio said a rise in the city’s crime rate is not enough reason for any police official to resign.
Meanwhile, former vice mayor Antonio Soriano has expressed disgust over what he described as
‘‘malicious accusations’’ against Trampe due to his alleged negligence.
‘‘Trampe is the most qualified and abled police chief the city ever got. He is a PMA graduate and a lawyer at that,’’ said Soriano in a statement sent to Cagayan de Oro Journal.
Soriano said that even if the crime rate has accelerated, Trampe ‘‘must be given the chance to prove himself and I believe he has made measures to counter all of these.’’
Soriano said Trampe should also be given full support by the local government. ‘‘Otherwise, he cannot move as expected of him.’’
"Can be read at Gold Star Daily>Link
A Ray of Hope for the forgotten Katipunan Revolt of Mindanao
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MIKE BAÑOS / June 13) – There are now two initiatives underway in the Philippine Senate to recognize the forgotten Katipunan revolt of Mindanao and recognize it by altering how the present Philippine flag looks like, one which has been continuing for some time now and another more recent.
Senator Aquilino "Nene" Q. Pimentel, Jr., a native son of Cagayan de Oro, has long been advocating for a ninth ray in the Philippine flag in recognition of the Moros indefatigable struggle for independence against the Spaniards.
"I have delivered speeches on it but I do not know whether I still have copies of the speeches," he wrote in reply to an email last Monday. "Today at the Pinaglaban Independence Day Rites, I reiterated it. I said that the Moros of Mindanao deserve a 9th ray in the Flag."
More recently, Senator Richard Gordon has been laying the ground work for the petition to add a ninth ray to the sun depicted in the Philippine flag, (which as every schoolboy and schoolgirl knows, represents the first eight provinces in Luzon which rose in the fight for freedom against Spain in 1896) in recognition of the "Mutiny at Calaganan" as the first Katipunan instigated revolt in Mindanao.
In fact, it was not only the Moros as represented by a group of Maranaos from Balo-i, Lanao del Norte, but in fact all three of Mindanao's tri-people who joined in the revolt: the Christian immigrants, the indigenous natives in the person of 50 Higaonons from Bukidnon, and a group of Moros from Lanao, making it not only a Katipunan revolt, but one in which all three of Mindanao's tri-people joined in as well.
Antonio J. Montalvan II, a local historian of note and a former member of the Cagayan de Oro City Historical and Cultural Commission, says that what local history has heretofore named as the "Calaganan Mutiny" was apparently not a mutiny at all, but a true-blue revolucion sparked by the Katipuneros of Luzon.
Montalvan admits a direct link between the Katipunan uprising in Luzon and the Calaganan Mutiny has yet to be established 'beyond a reasonable doubt', but there appears to be extant sources which appear to indicate that such a link did exist, and that Pio Valenzuela did indeed come to Mindanao on the instructions of Andres Bonifacio to foment a revolt against the Spaniards.
"Should a direct link be established between Bonifacio's Katipunan revolt in Luzon and the Calaganan Mutiny, then the people of Mindanao can rightfully petition the national government to add a ninth ray to the sun in the Philippine flag," Montalvan said.
What needs to be done at this point is to verify primary sources such as the Consular Letters of the French Embassy in Manila to Paris where the Calaganan Mutiny is described in detail, Montalvan added.
The letters are now in the archives of the National Museum in Manila, as are other extant documents like the historical account of the Jesuit historian Pablo Pastells in which the "Calaganan Mutiny" is also described in detail.
The Calaganan Mutiny is also detailed in the letters of Vicente Elio y Sanchez of Camiguin to the Manila-based Spanish newspaper La Oceania Española and two other historical sources but has never been linked to the "First Cry of Balintawak" led by Andres Bonifacio. One reason for this could be that Elio's letters never got past Spanish censors anxious to douse the flickering flames of revolution which had broken out in Luzon.
In late August of 1896, the Katipunan uprising against Spain had broken out in Luzon. Exactly a month later, or September 29, 1896, the mutiny exploded among the so-called Disciplinarios, a group of Filipinos from Luzon deported to the Spanish fort in Calaganan for training in military discipline to fight against the Moros of Lanao. Upon receiving instructions from the Katipunan in Manila, they raided the Spanish armory and proceeded to Cagayan to attack the town, being joined by some Moros (Some oral accounts claim that most of the Disciplinarios were in fact Katipuneros who were arrested by the Spaniards after the first salvo in Pugad Lawin or covertly sent to Mindanao to start another uprising there).
On the way, they ransacked convents and homes of Spanish peninsulars. However, a joint force of Spanish soldiers led by the Gobernadorcillo Juan de Pratts and Tercio de Voluntarios de Cagayan (volunteers, among them local hero Apolinar Velez) repulsed the Disciplinarios in Sta. Ana, Tagoloan.
From Cagayan, the rebeldes proceeded to Sumilao, Bukidnon where they were joined by a band of 50 Higa-onons. They next attacked Balingasag, and raided the outpost of Gingoog on January 1897. By that time, news of Rizal's execution had reached Cagayan and Misamis, and this further stoked the anger of the town folk, fanning the flames of the local Katipuneros. It took the Spanish gunboat Mariveles, recalled from the Tercio Distrito de Surigao, to finally subdue the resistance in Gingoog.
This was the only known Katipunan revolt in the whole of Mindanao which occurred at about the same time as the general uprising in Luzon, but two-time Palanca-award grand prize winner Antonio Enriquez says there was one other which occurred later (1898) in Zamboanga which successfully ousted the Spaniards and established the Zamboanga Republic under General Vicente Alvarez in that rinconcito de España, only to sputter later against the superior firepower of invading U.S. forces.
What appears to be remarkable about the 'Calaganan Mutiny' is that besides happening at approximately the same time as the Katipunan revolt in Luzon, there is apparently a direct link between it and the Katipunan revolt in the person of Pio Valenzuela, a cousin of the woman amazon Arcadia Valenzuela of Lapasan, Cagayan de Misamis (as Cagayan de Oro was then known) who visited Mindanao during this period (ostensibly on instructions from Andres Bonifacio himself!) to instigate a similar revolt in Mindanao.
Augustinian Recollect chronicles confirm that this revolt was in fact instigated by a communication from Katipuneros in Luzon, making Mindanao the ninth province to join the Katipunan revolt, albeit not included in the eight rays of the sun in the Philippine flag which represent the eight provinces which first rose in revolt against Spanish tyranny.
mike_banos_2000@yahoo.com>Link
Monday, June 12, 2006
Ambassador Kenney visits in Oro; helps Green Bank's 30,000th microloan client
(LEFT PHOTO) Ambassador Kristie A. Kenney (second from left) during her June 8 visit to Cagayan de Oro strikes a pose with Omar Andaya (1st left), President, Green Bank; Rosie Bilog (center); Ismael Andaya, Chairman Emeritus, Green Bank; and John Owens USAID (3rd and 4th from left). Kenney attended a ceremony at Green Bank to recognize the bank's 30,000th microloan client. Bilog (center), who started a home-based business processing cashew nuts for sale to retailers and wholesalers. Green Bank participates in a USAID program that helps banks provide loans to microenterprise customers, creating economic growth and prosperity for families in Cagayan de Oro. (RIGHT PHOTO) Ambassador Kristie A. Kenney talks with microenterprise owners who are recipients of micro-loans from Green Bank, a Cagayan de Oro bank that participates in a USAID program that helps banks provide loans to microenterprise customers. These women have all started small businesses thanks to these micro-loans. Also pictured are Ismael Andaya, Chairman Emeritus, Green Bank (partially hidden) and Omar Andaya, President, Green Bank (far right). (Photo supply by MIKE BAÑOS)
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